sanzen

Sanzen is a Japanese term that refers to the practice of seeking guidance from a Zen Buddhist master. It is a crucial element in the process of Zen training, allowing students to deepen their understanding and progress on their spiritual path. The term itself can be translated as "seeing the true," implying a journey of profound insight.

During a sanzen session, a student will typically present a koan, a paradoxical riddle or question, to the master. The master will then evaluate the student's response, which is often a verbal statement, a gesture, or a brief action. The master's feedback is not about finding a "correct" answer in a conventional sense, but rather about assessing the student's grasp of the underlying reality that the koan points to. This interaction is direct and personal, aiming to cut through intellectualization and foster direct experience.

The purpose of sanzen is not merely to solve intellectual puzzles, but to facilitate a breakthrough in consciousness, known as satori or kensho, a glimpse of enlightenment. The master acts as a guide, skillfully using the student's responses to push them beyond their habitual patterns of thought and perception. Repeated sanzen sessions are common, as the path to understanding is often arduous and requires persistent effort and guidance. The relationship between student and master is central to this practice, emphasizing trust and receptivity.