Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Zen Buddhism is a school of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasizes direct experience through meditation as a means to achieve enlightenment. It originated in China (Chan) before spreading to Japan (Zen).
Related terms
Bodhidharma: The legendary founder of Zen Buddhism, who is said to have brought the teachings from India to China.
Koan: A paradoxical question or statement used in Zen practice to challenge logical thinking and provoke enlightenment experiences.
Zazen: The seated meditation practice central to Zen Buddhism, focusing on breath awareness and mindfulness.