Rinzai Zen

Rinzai Zen is a school of Japanese Zen Buddhism known for its focus on direct experience and the use of koans—challenging riddles or paradoxical questions intended to provoke deep thought and insight. It emphasizes rigorous meditation practice (zazen) and the development of sudden enlightenment (satori). Founded by the monk Linji, Rinzai Zen encourages practitioners to confront their Zen training actively, often through intense interaction with teachers. Its approach aims to cut through intellectual reasoning, leading individuals to awaken to their true nature and the essence of existence.