The Zen Koans – Do we have it in us

For the people in the east, their soul is their laboratory. Through the techniques of meditation, easterners have been exploring the depths of human soul from ages. In spiritual realms, it is intuition which plays a major role in quenching our thirst for knowledge. But these practices of the east are not comprehended by westerners. It is because they are trained to think logically. The mind is their laboratory instead. One such incomprehensible practice of the east is The Zen Koans. The article tries to appreciate the essence of Zen Koans.

Man always is plagued with self doubts, illusions and prejudices. Those who are sensitive to these inner voices, embark on a journey of self exploration. The journey is tough. Over the time, they realize that prior to embarking on this journey, their intellect was trapped in a quick sand of ignorance and complacency. The self doubts, illusions and prejudices only compelled the soul to get out of the quick sand.

When the intellect manages to come out of the quicksand, the true process of learning begins. The soul starts getting answers to all its qualms. A stage soon follows were the storm of mindless quarries, insights, fears and aspirations comes to rest. It is after this stage when the mind and soul enlighten. Such a tranquil stage is seek ed, achieved and experienced by sages. Koans are valuable sayings of such sages, especially the Zen masters and the practitioners.

Koans in the form of questions, are used by the Zen masters, as a tool to test the understanding of a disciple on a concept. The meaning of the question is not conveyed apparently. It is done deliberately by the master. The intent is that the disciple should not focus his attention on providing a mere answer to the question. He should grasp the very essence of the concept and acquire the appropriate state of mind to deal with the situation embodied by the concept.

Concepts like Koans can be appreciated when we bring steadiness and contemplation in our lives. The mad rush which is the order of day in present times, cannot bring us close to such highly enlightened experiences of life.

Related posts:

1. Intuition – The Mysterious Gift
2. Perception Reigns Supreme