Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

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Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

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Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:39 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

Action: The way we express our thought through physical interaction with our environment.

Agura: Sitting cross-legged, where neither foot is placed firmly on the opposite thigh. This is neither the half or full lotus position. It is the common cross-legged position used to sit on the floor in the West.

Ai: Japanese word meaning harmony.

Alaya: That from which consciousness grows and to which it returns. Similar to the concept of Brahman.

alchemist: (n) one who practices alchemy, a Taoist set of procedures and principles meant to prolong human life

alchemy: (n) in Taoist practice, a set of procedures and principles meant to prolong human life. In Taoism, there were two types of alchemy: Outer Alchemy consisted of the chemical production of elixirs that were meant to be swallowed; Inner Alchemy, however, relied on symbolic meditation to achieve the same end.

Alaya-vijnana: The part of the subconscious that, in response to causes and conditions, sends pieces of illusion from the manas to the five senses and thought. This forms a cycle, that is endless, of delusion.

Altruistic Behavior: An act done without any intent for personal gain in any form. Altruism requires that there is no want for material, physical, spiritual, or egoistic gain.

Amitabha: (Amida, Amita) Buddha of eternal light and external life, of the "happy land," the Pure Land.

Ananda: Name of one of Buddha's disciples, joining early during Buddha's second year of teaching; he was one of Buddha's favored disciples, if not his most favored; his name means "joy." He was trusted to teach the doctrines, and to begin sermons. It was Ananda who got women admitted into the Buddhist order.

Anapanasati: The harmonious breathing of correct zazen practice.

Anatolia: Name given to a geographical location in history, that is presently called Turkey. Turkey borders on Europe and the Middle East.

Anatta: Buddhist doctrine that there is no permanent self, no soul (atman). It is the third of the three characteristics of existence. See also dukkha, annica, and ti-lakkhana.

Ango: An intensive practice period, usually of three months duration, devoted to meditation, study, and communal work.

Anja: The person who serves as the assistant to the jisha.

Anicca: Buddhist doctrine of impermanence, change. It is the first of the three characteristics of existence. See also dukkha, anatta, and ti-lakkhana.

Arahat: (Arahant) One who has reached the final stage of spiritual progress, meaning "the worthy." This is a Pali word used in Buddhism, ranking an individual equivelantly to the brahmin caste of Hinduism. That means that the arahat is capable of moksha, nirvana, the escape from samsara.

Asana: Third element in the path of classical Yoga, meaning postures.

Ascetic: One who practices self humbling, self mortification, and self humiliation in order to gain spiritual benefit. There are thirteen practices that monks are supposed to perform as an ascetic. These are: 1) wearing robes made from discarded materials, 2) wearing no more than three robes, 3) begging for food, 4) not discriminating as to where to go for food, 5) only eating one meal a day, 6) eating from only the alms bowl, 7) refusing any more food than can fit in the alms bowl, 8) living in the forest, 9) at the foot of a tree, 10) under the open sky, 11) in a graveyard, 12) being satisfied with one's home, and 13) sleeping in the sitting position. Buddha denounced ascetic practices, though these have been practiced by Buddhist monks.

Atman: Used in Hinduism, it is the self, the soul. "An" means to breath, an association frequently made with soul in religious traditions.

Attendant: (n) one who guards, looks after, or serves an important person; a servant

Attribute: (n) symbolic object which is conventionally used to identify a particular deity

Auspicious: (adj) pertaining to good fortune or luck

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:40 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva (J: Kannon): One of the three principal bodhisattvas, Avalokitesvara is the personification of great compassion and is usually portrayed in female form.

Avidya: In Hinduism this is one of the conditions involved in samsara and reincarnation, meaning ignorance. This is ignorance of spiritual perception, not book knowledge. The origin of tanha (craving) is avidya (ignorance), where tanha is what keeps the living in the cycle of samsara. We can see this reflected in the third noble truth, where the source of greed is illusion, and in order to overcome illusion we must overcome avidya, ignorance.

Bai: A striker for the gongs used during service or zazen.

Bakufu: The samurai "tent government" of Japan, commonly called the Shogunal government. There were three Shogunates, each embraced Zen practice, making it the religion of the samurai, and the civic religion.

B.C.E.: Before the Christian (or Common) Era. Commonly seen as B.C., meaning before Christ, though Christ was actually born in 6 B.C.E. See also C.E.

Bhakti: Form of Yoga emphasizing the control of emotions; the way to god through love.

Bodhgaya: The name of the area Gautama Siddharta was in when he was enlightened and became the Buddha.

Bodhi: Perfect wisdom and enlightenment. See buddhi.

Bodhi Day: December 8th, the day upon which the Buddha had his great realization after a week of meditation under the Bodhi Tree.

Bodhidharma: (Daruma in Japanese) In this book he is credited with popularizing Ch'an during the early sixth century C.E. He is also considered, in this book, to be the first eccentric Zen master. Other researchers have credited Bodhidharma with being the founder of Zen. See also Tao-sheng.

Bodhisattva: Gautama used this term to describe himself when he was seeking enlightenment. The Mahayana use this term to identify those who have attained bodhi, but chose not to enter nirvana and become a Buddha. Instead, they vow to provide salvation for every living thing, "every blade of grass."

Bompu: Ordinary Zen, free from philosophical or religious contents, and is practiced for the sole purpose of improving one's physical and mental being.

Bonno: A function of the mind that brings trouble, passion, illusion. Deshimaru states, "Desires are natural; they become bonno when there is attachment" (p. 140).

Bo Tree: Also called the Bodhi Tree. The tree Gautama Siddharta sat under, and when he arose he was the Buddha. According to tradition this was an asvattha tree, though there is no historical evidence to support this belief.

Botsudan: A shrine of the Buddha. This name is used to designate those shrines both in temples and in private homes in Japan.

Brahman: The cosmic ocean, where the soul (atman) is disolved upon death. This ocean is the cosmic soul in Hindu tradition.

Brahmin: The Hindu caste system has four major castes, which in order of rank are: servants, merchants, warriors (ruling caste), and the brahmin. The brahmin is the highest caste, the priestly caste. Members of the brahmin caste may attain moksha, the escape from samsara. Members of the other castes must work their way up in the castes through the cycle of reincarnation, by balancing their karma. The brahmin must maintain a balanced karma in order to attain moksha.

Buddha: Literally means "awakened one". A person who has achieved enlightenment and has seen completely to the source of all dharmas so that he is free of every kind of craving. A Buddha has no reflection. He and the world are simultaneous. The Buddha that was born in 563 B.C. Siddhartha Gautama, also known as Shakyamuni, meaning "the silent sage". He is known as the Buddha of our age. Without instruction, he came to awakening through his endless vow of many lifetimes to relinquish the source of suffering.

Buddha-Dharma: The all inclusive term in which all of the teachings of the Buddha fall under.

Buddhahood: The state a Buddha attains.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:41 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Buddha-mind: The mind of one who has been awakened to the desire for enlightenment. This is the intent behind the act of releasing Buddha-nature. It is also the inherent wisdom and enlightenment that exists in all sentient beings.

Buddha-nature: The original nature of all people, which is harmonious and non-dualistic. This is always present, whether it is ever realized or not. It is a concrete expression used to signify perfection. Zen practice reveals this intrinsic nature. It is not something that requires "seeking"; rather it is always with us.

Buddhi: (Bodhi) Enlightenment or awakening; to awake or become conscious; perfect enlightenment or wisdom. Brandon notes three kinds: the disciple of the Buddha, the isolated and independently attained enlightened one, and the universal Buddha who also independently attained enlightenment and proclaims that enlightenment to others.

Buddhism: (n) major institutional religion(s) based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, a sixth century B.C. prince, who became known as the Buddha, or Enlightened One. In its philosophical teachings, Buddhism seeks the liberation of the individual from the suffering inherent in life. As Buddhism spread from India to South and Southeast Asia and finally to China, many diverse forms of the religion developed.
[Siddhartha Gautama was not a Buddhist himself and he warned of institutions that might elevate him to a deity.]

Buddhist: (adj; n) of or relating to the philosophical teachings of Buddhism; one who believes in or practices Buddhism.

Buji: "No matter." An attitude acquired toward Zen, in which the individual does not practice Zazen because of the rationality that we are all originally buddhas. This is decieving, as these individuals push themselves further from their Buddha-nature, neglecting all the effort needed to overthrow delusion.

Bushi: The samurai, the ruling elite within the Shogunal system of government. Above the bushi were the Daimyo, who were higher ranking bushi. The Daimyo were directly responsible to the Shogunate.

ca.: Abbreviation for circa, a Latin term meaning about, or around. Used to signify dates that we are not exactly certain of.

C.E.: Christian Era or Common Era. A term preferred over A.D. (Anno Domini- the year of the domination or rule of our lord Christ), because it removes the Christian religious element, out of respect for other calendars and religions.

celestial: (adj) related to heaven or the divine

Celestial Worthy of the Way and its Power: "Divine title" of Laozi by the second century A.D. In this guise, Laozi is one of the Three Purities, the greatest Taoist gods. The name is derived from the Taoist text attributed to Laozi, the Classic of the Way and Its Power. [This view is within the Religion of Taoism only not with Philosophical Taoism]

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:42 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Chakra: (Cakra) The centers of force that are within specific organs of the body. These organs "collect, transform, and distribute the forces flowing through them" (Kapleau, p.15).

Ch'an: Chinese Buddhism a confluence of Philosophical Taoism, overlaid with Mahayana Buddhism.

Ch'an (Zen) Buddhist: (n) one who practices the type of Buddhism that developed in China in the sixth and seventh centuries. This type of Buddhism combined the doctrines of Indian Buddhism with Chinese Confucianism, and the Classic of the Way and Its Power [Philosophical Taoism] . More than any other type of Buddhism, Chan stresses the importance of the enlightenment experience and the uselessness of rituals while encouraging intellectual analysis of the doctrine.

Ch'i: In Taoism this is the energy of life, somewhat equivelant to ki (hara) in Japanese said to reside below the navel and above the pelvic region.

Chiden: The person responsible for the care and maintenance of the Center's altars and ceremonial items.

Chinese zodiac: (n) organization of the calendar into 12-year cycles, each represented by an animal associated with specific personality traits. The animals include: rat, ox, tiger, hare, dragon, snake, horse, ram, monkey, cock, dog, and pig. People born in the zodiac year of a specific animal are said to possess that animal's traits. See the Chinese zodiac diagram for a year-by-year list of each sign's particular characteristics.

Cinnabar: (n) red mercury ore, or mercuric sulfide, which was highly valued and used for its color and chemical properties; a primary ingredient used in the Taoist elixirs of Outer Alchemy

Civic Religion: Popular cultural elements and institutions that bring a community together. An example would be democracy, which is a civic religion in Western nations like the United States. The institution of democracy brings the people of the U.S. together, binding them. Zen is a civic religion of Japanese culture.

Classic of the Way and Its Power: (Daode jing) (also spelled Tao Te Ching) the earliest-known text of the Taoist tradition, which is said to have been authored by the legendary figure Laozi. The text is actually a compilation of various writings collected over the course of generations. It may have assumed its current form by the third or fourth century B.C. The Classic of the Way and Its Power includes poetic passages, sayings, fragments of political texts, and passages intended for recitation. It served as the foundation for both philosophical and religious Taoism.

Complete Realization sect: (n) a Taoist monastic order founded in northern China around 1160. The sect combines the teachings of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. The goal of the sect's followers was to attain immortality by perfectly realizing the Tao in themselves. Both male and female members of this sect practiced a strict monastic lifestyle. It survives today as one of the two major sects of Taoism, and its headquarters is the White Cloud Monastery in Beijing.

Confucius: Romanized name of K'ung Fu Tse. His teachings set the social framework for Chinese society. This framework was copied by other countries in East and Southeast Asia.

Confucianism: (n) a philosophical practice based on the teachings of Confucius (c. 550 - 478 B.C.), a Chinese scholar and teacher. Confucianism offered a model of government that emphasized a ruler's moral qualities, such as the correct and harmonious fulfillment of his family relations. The relationship of father and son provided the model for all relationships, including that between the ruler and his ministers. Later Confucianism of the Song dynasty (called Neo-Confucianism by Western scholars) added a cosmological dimension that drew on the principles of Taoism and Buddhism.

Consciousness: In Buddhism there are eight classes of consciousness. The first five are the senses (sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing), the sixth is thought, the seventh is manas, and the eighth is alaya-vinana.

Contrition: (n) state of guilt or remorse resulting from wrong or evil actions

Cosmology: cosmological (n; adj) beliefs about the origin and structure of the universe. Chinese cosmology referred not only to the structure and operation of the heavens, but also to that of the earth and human beings. Cosmology in this context implies the way that these realms work together and affect the others; of or relating to the origin and structure of the universe

Cravaka: Sanskrit name for the Four Noble Truths.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:42 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Daijo: The Mahayana way of Zen, the Great Vehicle. Practitioners must be able to see into their true natures and put forth their beliefs, their way, in their daily lives. Thus they actualize their true nature. This is the form of Zen most emphasized in the Rinzai school.

Daikan Eno: The Sixth Patriarch of Zen, whose school of "Sudden Enlightenment" became the mainstream of Zen practice and thought. All Zen lineages descend from him.

Diasan: Private interview with a sensei.

Daishi: Name used as a title for a great master. See also Zenji.

Daisho: Lit. "Great Priest," the honorary title given to a priest at a later stage of his life.

Dao: A way of transliterating Tao.

Delusion: Living within the conceptual mind. Living within the cycle of continuous thought.

Dennan: Altar attendant; passes out Sutra books and assists the Chiden with altar setup.

Densho: Name of the large hanging bell in the front gaitan.

Dharana: The sixth element in the path of classical Yoga, meaning concentration.

Dharani: A short Buddhist chant, often untranslatable, which is recited during services as an invocation to encourage a certain attitude of mind.

Dharma (Dhamma): Translated as law. In Buddhism, the Dharma is the canonical texts. [Zen: The undefineable everything. The basis of life itself. Energy.]

Dharma Dual: A verbal contest of wisdom of the Dharma. Traditionally, wandering monks could stay in a monastery as long as they continued winning Dharma duals.

Dharma Heir: One who is designated as the successor of a master or teacher, one who has apprehended the transmission. Mahakasyapa was the Dharma Heir of Buddha Gautama. See also Transmission.

Dharma-kaya: Kaya means body; this is the body of the law of Buddha, the eternal law. It is one of the three aspects of Buddha, in which everything in the cosmos is one.

Dharma Successor: One who has reached the same level of enlightenment as his or her master, and as such replaces the master when the master dies. This has nothing to do with status within the monastery. Many masters have named the lowest persons in their monastery to be their Dharma successors.

Dharma Talk: A lecture given on the Dharma or any other Buddhist topic. See also teisho.

Dhyana: The seventh element in the path of classical Yoga, meaning meditation. It is equivalent to Zen and Ch'an, which are transliterations of dhyana.

Disciple: One who follows or accepts a teaching or teacher; a pupil; a student of a particular school, religion, master, or teacher.

Do: Translated simply as "the way."

Doan: Name of a member of the ryo responsible for the playing of various bells and drums during service. May also refer specifically to the person who plays the large Keisu.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:43 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Dogen Zenji: Brought the Soto school [Slow School] to Japan. Lived from ca. 1200 to 1253 C.E. He also founded Eihei-ji, the principal Soto training monastery in Japan, and wrote the Shobogenzo, a pivotal Soto text.

Dojo: A center of training for Zen. [Also a common name for Training Hall in Japan for Martial Artist]

Dokusan: A period of interaction between a Zen student and a Zen teacher, which is done according to a regular schedule. This is a personal encounter, in which the teacher is able to probe and stimulate the student's understanding, and the student is able to ask questions directly related to practice. Since everything is Zen practice, questions can be asked about anything. This is different from a mondo only slightly, because this involves an individual and a mondo can be done in a group. Mondo is similar enough that it is often used.

Dukkha: Pain, suffering. This is not a pessimistic view of reality, it is actually optimistic, it is an affirmation, a confirmation. Dukkha also represents a fever or illness. It is the first noble truth. It is also the second of the three characteristics of existence. See also anatta, anicca, and ti-lakkhana.

Dzogchen: Literally means "great perfection". Teaching taught by Tibetan Buddhism in which all practioners strive to realize.

Effort: The energy put into meditation, conduct, and knowledge.

Ego: The individual or self; in Buddhism the ego is an illusion, which helps to perpetuate all illusion. A false sense of separateness created by living within delusion.

Eightfold Path: The way Buddha Gautama prescribed to reduce universal suffering. The eight elements are right: understanding, thought, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, and concentration. The divisions of the Eightfold Path, with the religious divisions in parentheses, are: knowledge (faith), conduct (morality), and meditation.

Eight Immortals: A group of legendary, semi-historical figures important in both Religious and Philosophical Taoism. Artistic representations of each are usually recognizable by identifying their respective attributes. The names of the Eight Immortals are Zhongli Quan, He Xiangu, Zhang Guo, L. Dongbin, Han Xiangxi, Cao Guojiu, Li Tieguai, and Lan Caihe. Stories of the Eight Immortals were popularized in folklore, drama, novels, and woodblock prints.

Eisai Zenji: Brought the Rinzai school to Japan. Lived ca. 1141 to 1215 C.E.

Ekagrata: One of the purposes of Yoga practice, to attain ekagrata which is the state of single-pointedness.

Elixir: (n) in Outer Alchemy, a magical potion that bestows immortality when swallowed; in Inner Alchemy, the life-prolonging energy attained through spiritual purification.

Eko: A dedication. During service the eko comes after the recited text.

Emolument: (n) In Taoism; money or other compensation for work that has been done.

Enlightenment: A state in which one is aware of one's true nature. This is not necessarily a state of complete awareness, which would be nirvana. [The process of Enlightenment is a Awakening followed by Awareness that may or may not lead to Enlightenment.]

Eternal Now: Living in the moment, the now.

Fact: That which is real, not necessarily what is believed (truth).

Faith: A belief; in the religious sense, faith is a belief in the supernatural or whatever other force brings the believers together. Faith has nothing to do with fact.

Five Phases: (n, pl) the relationship of nature's five elements (water, wood, fire, metal, and earth) to various natural cycles and phenomena. In Taoism, each of the five elements corresponds to a time of day, direction, and season. Movement from one phase to the next occurs in defined sequences. For instance, water (night, north, winter) eventually becomes wood (morning, east, spring). The Five Phase system also includes the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac (for example, the rat and pig are water signs). The movements of the Five Phases are rooted in the cycles of yin and yang.

Five Sacred Peaks: (n, pl) In Taoism, five sacred mountains located along the five directions (north, south, east, west, and center) that occupy powerful places in Taoist geography. The sacred mountains are not actually single peaks; rather they are networks of peaks, cliffs, gorges, hills, ravines, etc. To communicate with the deities on these mountains, emperors ordered the construction of important Taoist temples on each peak. Taoists also believe that immortals inhabit the Five Sacred Peaks. On their slopes grow the magical mushrooms that bestow immortality.

Five Sins: Killing one's father or mother, or an arhat; shedding the blood of Buddha; and destroying the harmony of the sangha.

Four Noble Truths: The central theme of Buddhism, and was first thing Buddha Gautama taught, in his Sermon at Deer Park. The Four Noble Truths are: pain is universal, the cause of pain is greed, the source of greed is illusion (maya), following the Eightfold Path leads to the cessation of pain, greed, and illusion. See also: Dukkha, Tanha, Maya, and Eightfold Path.

Four Signs: The signs that would make Gautama seek enlightenment. These are: old age, sickness, death, and a holy man (an ascetic).

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:46 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Four Vows: Vows taken by bodhisattvas, that are regularly recited in zendos after zazen. 1) All beings I vow to liberate, without number or prejudice. 2) I vow to uproot all the endless blind passions. 3) I vow to penetrate every level of truth. 4) I vow to attain the path and way of the Buddha and the Dharma.

Fudomyo: The Immovable One; he represents the will to enlightenment amidst greed, hate, and delusion.

Fukuetsu: The assistant Ino (the one who leads services when the Ino is absent).

Fusatsu: The ceremony, usually held twice a month, for the renewal of vows taken at Jukai. Based on the centuries-old ceremony of Upasatha (twice-monthly recital of the precepts), fusatsu allows us to both renew our vows and rededicate ourselves to practice. It consists of bowing, reciting the Gatha of Atonement for one's evil karma, vowing to be one with the Past Seven Buddhas, reciting the Four Great Vows, and the Adoration of the Three Treasures.

Fushinzamu: Each day for a set time, everybody sets aside their regular jobs and cleans the Center's grounds and buildings. An integral part of practice, Fushinzamu is a wonderful opportunity to express our zazen as samu and group practice. It is also a chance to work with people who would normally have different jobs, and thus brings the Sangha closer together.

Fushiryo: Not thinking, as opposed to hishiryo's beyond thought. Not thinking is not a good state of mind, it is a state of non-awareness, where hishiryo has awareness.

Gaitan: The entry areas immediately outside of the zendo. In the case of Hazy Moon, the landing at the head of the stairs.

Gakki: Memorial Service for well-known Masters in our lineage.

Gassho: Raising the hands, with palms together, in a gesture of respect, humility, or gratitude, or all three.

Gatha: A verse of four or more lines. Different Gathas are chanted during the day at monasteries and Zen centers: before talks, during meals, etc.

Gedo: Non-Buddhist Zen; Zen without Buddhist teachings. Often associated with mysticism and super-natural powers, which are usually what is being sought by its practitioners.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:47 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Genjo-koan: "Life is Enlightenment". The great master Dogen Zenji's most famous chapter of his book, Shobo-genzo.

Gnostic: Knowledge that is so pure that it cannot be explained or proven wrong, because it is real fact transcending time and space.

Godo: In a Soto zendo, the monk in charge of the zendo, second to the roshi. This is approximately equivelant to the jikijitsu in Rinzai monasteries.

Haishiki: The mat at which the officiant stands and does his bows during services.

Hakama: The black skirt-like garment worn both by men and women during zazen.

Hako: The incense box brought in by the Jiko during services.

Hakuin zenji: The modern Patriarch of Japanese "Rinzai" Zen, Hakuin Zenji systematized Koan study into the form by which it is known today. All modern Rinzai Masters trace their lineage through him.

Han: Hanging wooden block on which a mallet is struck to announce the time for zazen.

Han dynasty: (206 B.C. - A.D. 220) the period of great cultural and territorial expansion that brought China into contact with other cultures, including those of Southeast Asia and Korea. During this time, Confucianism began to flourish and Buddhism was brought to China by merchants along the Silk Roads. In the Han dynasty, the civil service was developed, the first history of China was written, and the first Chinese dictionary was compiled. Many concepts that became the foundations for religious Taoism (e.g., notions of the cosmos and immortality) developed during this period, and Laozi was deified. Taoist-inspired rebellions ultimately brought about the collapse of the dynasty. Many of the art objects that survive from this period are burial objects that reflect ideas about cosmology and the afterlife.

Hanamatsuri: A festival celebrating the Buddha's birthday. Observed on April 8th.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:47 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Handscroll: (n) a painting or piece of calligraphy made in the form of a horizontal scroll specifically intended for occasional, intimate viewing. Handscrolls are viewed just as Chinese is read: a section at a time, from right to left. Handscrolls vary considerably in length; although some are quite short, others may extend to over 70 feet in length.

Hanging scroll: (n) a painting or piece of calligraphy made in the form of a vertical scroll hung either on a wall or from the end of an attendant's pole. Unlike oil canvases or panels, scroll paintings could be easily taken down and replaced at various times of the year to suit the tastes of visitors or to mark certain occasions, such as the changing seasons. Scroll paintings are remounted every few decades to repair any damage and help preserve the image

Hanka: Japanese name for the half lotus position of meditation. In this position, one of the two feet is brought up and the back of the foot is pressed against the opposite inner thigh.

Hara: The center of awareness, as well as the center of a person's gravity, energy, and activity; located just below the naval, in the lower abdomen. It is literally the intestines. Zazen and correct practice are supposed to strengthen the hara.

Hatha: Form of Yoga, to which the practice of postures and breathing control belong.

Hierarchic scale: (n) an artist's method of indicating the importance of individuals through relative size, regardless of actual dimensions. Persons of lesser importance are thus depicted smaller in size in relation to their superiors.

Hierarchy: (n) a social structure in which individuals or classes of people are ranked so that some people occupy higher levels of importance than others

Higan: The services held to celebrate the spring and autumn equinoxes.

Hinayana: Name given by the Mahayana to the other schools of Buddhism that preceded it. The preferred name for these schools is Theravada. The "smaller vehicle" of Buddhism. Based on the Pali canon (Tripitaka), the emphasis is on individual enlightenment only. Dominant tradition in Southeast Asia.

Hishiryo: Beyond thought; thinking without thought; sunyata of thinking and thought.

Hossen: Japanese word for Dharma dueling. A ceremony at the end of Ango, in which the Shuso (Head Monk or Trainee) holds Dharma Combat with the trainees and others.

Hossu: Originally a fly-whisk, the hossu is now used by the officiant during special services.

Hui-yuan: A Buddhist monk, who lived ca. 337-417 C.E. He is credited with founding the Pure Land sect of Buddhism.

Ihai: A memorial tablet with the deceased's name and date of death. It is placed on the altar during memorial services for that person.

Immortals [Hsein] (n, pl) in Taoism, Hsein individuals who have achieved eternal life through perfect realization of the Tao. One may become immortal through meditation or Inner Visualization, physical training and breathing techniques, the ingestion of elixirs, or moral behavior. Taoists believe that immortals dwell in the heavens, in caverns, on mountains, and in other magical paradises. [Philosophical Taoist do not believe in Immortals.]

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:48 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Inka: (Inka Shomei) The seal of approval; a formal acknowledgement of a student's completion of Zen training. This does not imply mastery, merely the completion of a program, such as passing a set of prescribed koans. It is a sign, by the master, of being satisfied with the student's level of understanding.

Inkin: Small handbell struck with a metal beater.

Inner Alchemy: (n) a procedure, based on Taoist principles, designed to prolong human life, with the ultimate goal of immortality. Inner Alchemy involves meditation, which produces a symbolic elixir in the body. Hsein Immortals meditate to store the Golden Elixir.

Inner Visualization: (n) a form of Taoist religious practice that directs the practitioner's imagination toward spiritual transformation. The process may either involve an imagined journey or the metaphoric transformation of the human body into the form of a mountain. The goal is immortality.

Ino: One of the head positions in the zendo, the Ino is the leader of the services being held there.

Inryo: Abbot's quarters.

I-shin den-shin: To be transmitted without words; "from my soul to yours."

Is-ness: The immediate state of being; being the now of being, and being.

Jade Emperor: chief of the pantheon of popular gods incorporated into Religious Taoism.

Jakugo: As part of koan practice, this is a phrase or expression that summarizes or comments on all or part of a koan. It is used to illustrate the student's understanding of the koan. We see something similar in our school system, where children are required to define a word in their own words, so that the teacher knows that the student understands the meaning.

Jen: see ren.

Jihi: Giving happiness by saving all sentient beings from suffering. This is the goal of the bodhisattva.

Jikido: The time-keeper for the zendo

Jiko: The assistant to the jisha for zendo activities. The Jiko brings the hako in and out of the zendo during services.

Jikijitsu: In a Rinzai zendo, the monk in charge of the zendo, second to the roshi. This is approximately equivelant to the godo in Soto monasteries.

Jisha: The attendant of a teacher, the Jisha works with the teacher during interviews (dokusan, daisan, etc.) and also attends to the teacher's personal needs.

Jizo Bodhisattva (bosatsu) One of the major bodhisattvas, Jizo is the protector of children and beings suffering in hell

Joriki: The power of samadhi arising from proper zazen practice. Literally means "power of mind". The long term strength that is carried through everyday life by the raising of concentration. With strong joriki, one can direct the mind in any direction, at any time.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:49 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Jnana: In Yoga, jnana is the way to god through knowledge.

Juban: The half-kimono undergarment worn under kimono or robe.

Jujukinkai: Japanese name for the ten precepts of the Mahayana school. See also jukai and precepts.

Jukai: Taking the ten precepts of the Mahayana school. [The ceremony at which one receives the Precepts and becomes a lay Buddhist.] This ceremony both acknowledges who we are and our commitment to realize and actualize our self. Through Jukai, one becomes a member of the Buddhist family and establish a special connection between the preceptor and oneself. The ceremony is begun with nine bows: three each to Manjusri Bodhisattva, one's parents, and the preceptor (Sensei). The student then receives the Sixteen Precepts (that is, the Three Treasures, the Three Pure Precepts, and the Ten Grave Precepts). After vowing to maintain them, the student then receives a Dharma (Buddhist) name, rakusu, and lineage chart, and receives greetings from everyone present (jahai). Jukai is also called Zaike Tokudo or "remaining-at-home-ordination." See also jujukinkai and precepts.

Junko: Walking with the waking stick (kyosaku).

Junryo: Ceremony of offering incense at home altars.

Kaan: Assistant to the shika (guest-master).

Kai: (Kairitsu) See precepts.

Kaisando: Founder's shrine room.

Kansho: The bell hit by the jikido to signal the beginning and end of zazen periods.

Karma: In Hindu tradition the karma is the record of all actions from all lives, the consequences for which are determined by the intentions of the act, not the consequences of the act. In Yoga, this is the form of practice that emphasizes work. [It is the endless chain of cause and effect that defines the future events of an individuals life.]

Karuna: Japanese term meaning satori wisdom and compassion.

Kasyapa: First to receive the "transmission of the lamp." See Mahakasyapa.

Katsu: (or kwatz; in Chinese it is ho) As with mu, this word has no exact meaning. It is used by masters to help students to overcome dualisms and ego-centric thoughts.

Keiso: [Keisu] A bowl-shaped bronze gong, used during chanting in all the Buddhist sects of Japan. Small keisos are available in curio shops all over the United States. They are commonly called meditation gongs. All keisos are struck on the rim with a padded club. Full-sized keisos are struck with a padded club using both hands.

Kenchuto: The state and condition of absolute naturalness.

Kendo: The way of the sword; the art of fencing and swordsmanship.

Kensho: The first experience of satori, consciousness; an abrupt awakening usually acquired after vigorous stimulation. Many students mistake this for satori, enlightenment, and even Nirvana. Kensho is generally counterproductive, as the student has "tasted" the experience, and subsequently tries to achieve the experience again. Usually used by the Rinzai school. Kensho means literally, "seeing into one's own true nature," and is often used interchangeably with satori.

Kesa: Symbolic robe of the transmission from a master to a disciple. Traditionally, Buddha made his kolomo from sheets used to wrap bodies in for cremation, which he found along the banks of the Ganges River, where the dead were cremated. A kolomo or kesa made this way is a transformation of the lowest of fabrics to the most beautiful and holy.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:49 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Keizan zenji: The Fourth Patriarch of the Soto School in Japan. Keizan Zenji was largely responsible for the spread of Soto Zen and noted for his meticulous instructions regarding all aspects of monastic life.

Kensho: The experience of seeing ones true nature. Rising to the surface and being fully awake.

Kentan: Checking rounds done before dawn zazen (and before sesshin) by the most senior teacher present.

Kesa: The outer-most monk's robe which is worn over one shoulder by monks and nuns. It goes over the koromo. It originated in India and is symbolic of the Buddha's robes. It is received during the shukke tokudo ceremony.

Ki: The energy of the spirit. This is not the soul or the ego, it is only energy. It is also activity, and the energy of the cosmos and everything within the cosmos, especially in living things.

Kimono: The undergarment worn beneath robes (monk or lay).

Kinhin: Walking in contemplation; walking meditation; Zen practice while walking; a focussed, quick paced walking zazen. Often done between periods of zazen or meditation.

Knowledge: In Eastern traditions, knowledge is equated with Intuition, not just information.

Koan: A Zen riddle, used most notably in the Rinzai [Sudden] school as a tool for transmitting understanding. Any text that claims to have answers to koans is wrong, because the only answer is the experience of understanding, the implication is that we study ourselves by studying koans.

Kokonohai: Ceremony of leaving the temple.

Kokoro: Japanese word for heart, spirit, soul, and mind. The Japanese believe that the kokoro is in the chest area.

Kolomo: Wide sleaved black monk's robe. Traditionally the kolomo is hand made from the cheapest materials that have been discarded. The kolomo is very personal to a monk, since the monk put all the patches together and died it. [See kesa.]

Koro: Incense bowl.

Koromo: The outer full, black robe worn by monks and nuns during services and zazen. This robe originated in China.

Kotsu: A fifteen inch long baton, shaped like the human spine, used by masters when monitoring a meditation session. As with the kyosaku, the master may strike or poke a meditator in order to encourage or awaken.

Ku: Japanese word equivelant to sunyata.

Kundalini: A name used in Yoga for a snake like inner energy, that is wrapped around the abdominal region of the body. This is somewhat related to ki, ch'i, and te.

Kung Fu Tse: Chinese name for Confucius.

Kusen: Teaching while in the correct sitting position for zazen.

Kyosaku: An "awakening stick." The kyusaku is a long stick with a flattened end, used by monitros during a meditation session. The monitors use kyosakus to encourage and awaken the meditators, stiking them between the neck and shoulder. This is also relaxing if done properly, relieving tension as the area being struck is a pressure point.

Lao Tse: Also Lao Tzu. Supposed founder of Taoism, and thought to be the author of the Tao Te Ching.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:50 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Laozi literally, "old master," traditionally assumed to have been born in the sixth century B.C. He is considered the author of the earliest Taoist philosophical text, the Classic of the Way and Its Power (Daode jing). Historians now agree that Laozi was a legendary figure developed to provide an author for the Daode jing, which was compiled by a group of scholars in the third century B.C. During the Han dynasty, Laozi was deified; he remains one of the most important deities in religious Taoism.

Li: In this text li (pronounced lee-ee) means ritual. There are two other forms that frequently appear. The most frequent is a unit of measure for distance, equivelant to about one-half of kilometer, or one-third of a mile.

Livelihood: The means by which we make a living, support ourselves.

Lotus: Symbol of purity and perfection, Buddha-nature. Lotus: (n) a plant of the water-lily family that grows in water or mud. Because its blossoms emerge pure and beautiful out of muddy waters, Buddhists view the lotus as a symbol of human beings' true nature, which can remain unstained by the mud of the world. The lotus may also symbolize the soul that has attained enlightenment, freed from the mire of the everyday world. The many seeds of the lotus make it also a symbol of fertility. Although it was borrowed from Buddhism, the lotus appears in many Taoist religious images.

Lotus Position: The position that Buddha is depicted in. In meditation, the feet are brought up, and the backs of both feet are pressed against the opposite inner thighs. [Called the Full Lotus position]

Maha: Literally means "greater."

Mahakasyapa: A disciple named Kasyapa was called this after he had understood Buddha Gautama's silent sermon. When Buddha held out a flower in silence, Kasyapa smiled in understanding. Then Buddha gave Kasyapa the flower signifying the first transmission.

Mahaprajna: Great wisdom; the wisdom of the Buddhas.

Mahayana: The Greater Raft/Vehicle. One of the four main branches of Buddhism, emphasizing salvation for the regular people. The Mahayana school uses the vernacular language to convey its teachings. It was founded some time after Asoka, from his example of spreading Buddhism. It is practiced in China and Japan and Korea. It emphasizes compassion and the bodhisattva ideal of saving all sentient beings.

Makyo: Japanese word meaning illusions, fantasies and hallucinations that sometimes arise during zazen; by continuing to sit, these makyo are dispelled.

Mandorla: (n) an almond-shaped halo of light enclosing the whole of some sacred figures.

Manas: The level of consciousness where illusion is generated, it is the subconscious.

Manjusri: (Monju) The bodhisattva of meditation and supreme wisdom. He is usually depicted riding a lion, carrying the sword of wisdom, which is supposed to cut through illusion. He is frequently the principal figure on the altar of a zendo. One of the three principal bodhisattvas [The lion symbolizes strength and bravery]

Mantra: A short scripture, similar to a dharani, which is chanted to aid concentration, or to express the essence of a sutra.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:51 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Master: The guide of the traveler (student). Roshi is a better term, if it is used without trying to imply a status.

Matriarch: (n) a woman who controls a family or a social group

Maya: Name attributed to Gautama Siddharta's mother. More importantly, maya is translated as illusion, and is used to describe reality.

Microcosm: (n) a miniature version of a larger object or entity.

Mindfulness: A state of awareness, of oneself and others, as well as nature.

Ming dynasty (1368 - 1644) the period following the Yuan dynasty in which native rule was restored. Ming emperors and empresses sponsored the renovation of Taoist sacred sites and the practice of reformed Taoist rituals. In the Ming dynasty, the Taoist god Zhenwu became a national protector. Paintings characterized by great energy and vigor flourished during this time, and the porcelain industry received major imperial patronage. Early Ming energy was followed by a powerful conservative movement, echoed in the efforts to isolate China from the outside world. Nevertheless, the Portuguese landed in China in 1514. In the 17th century, trade with the Netherlands began and Jesuit priests entered southern China. Corruption in the late-Ming imperial court ultimately led to another foreign occupation.

Minister: (n) In China the head of a governmental department.

Moksha: In Hindu tradition, the escape from samsara, which can only be attained by a member of the brahmin caste, with a balanced karma.

Mokugyo: An instrument, made of hollowed wood in the shape of a fish. Like the keiso, this is struck with a padded club during sutra chanting in Chinese Buddhist temples. The fish is an important symbol in Zen, since fish never sleep and are forever aware and watchful.
[ wooden drum used to keep the beat while chanting]

Mondo: Related to the Japanese word mondai, meaning to question, mondo may mean the way of the gate (mon), or to the crest (mon). Each of these connotations fits the purpose of mondo. During mondo the master asks questions quickly, and the student must respond quickly. This is done to prevent the student from thinking, to allow intuition to control. Used notably in the Rinzai Sudden school.

Mongol: (adj) of or relating to the inhabitants of Mongolia in central Asia, who ruled China during the Yuan dynasty

Mo Tse: A philosopher who rebelled against Confucianism, and taught universal love and utilitarianism.

Mu: A negative prefix, somewhat equivalent to "non," "un," or "in." A classical riddle since Master Joshu used it in response to the koan "Does a dog have Buddha nature?" Mu is also a koan used for meditation. Because of its simplicity and that neither intellect nor imagination are fed by it, nor provide a solution for it. It is also used to mean no-thing.

Mudra: Symbolic hand positions or gestures common in Hinduism and Buddhism.

Mujo: The impermanent condition of everything.

Mushin: No mind, spirit, soul, nor intuition.

Mushotoku: The optimum state for Zen practice, in which there is no goal or object, no intention for self gain or profit.

Naisan: An unscheduled and secret visit with a roshi at any time of the day or night, when there are special circumstances to warrant the unscheduled visit.

Nembutsu: "Calling the name." Used by the Pure Land sect, to ritually call the name of Amitabha Buddha, as an assurance of faith that Amitabha will provide a rebirth into the land of the Buddha, the Pure Land.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:51 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Nenju: A ceremony at the end of the week thanking the teacher for his teaching and declaring the beginning of Hosan.

Nirvana (Nibbana): The ultimate state of awareness, and the penultimate state of harmony. [It is second in harmony to para-nirvana.] The final liberation where nothing else could be more pure. Nirvana has no conditions. No cause, no effect.

Nirvana day: February 15th, the day upon which the Buddha left this life and passed into Parinirvana (Nirvana after life).

Niyama: The second element in the path of classical Yoga, meaning disciplines.

Northern and Southern dynasties: (386 - 589) long period of political disunity after the fall of the Han dynasty. During this time, China was divided into a number of smaller kingdoms. The period is also known as the Six Dynasties.

Northern Song (960 - 1126) the early Song-dynasty period, during which the capital, Bianjing (modern Kaifeng), was located along the Yellow River. A period of political reunification, the Northern Song was characterized by strong sea trade rather than military power. The dynasty also brought improvements in river, canal, and road transportation. The Northern Song emperors were great patrons of Taoism and the arts. They were avid collectors and generous supporters of a painting academy. The Song emperor Huizong (r. 1110 - 1125) believed he was an incarnation of a Taoist god.

Numinous: (adj) having spiritual, mysterious, or holy qualities.

Nyoi: A short wooden staff symbolizing the nyoi jewel, which is capable of removing all suffering. A symbol for the Three Treasures.

Nyudonohai: Trainee entering ceremony held in the zendo after a trainee has done the one-day sitting.

Obi: The belt-like garment used to hold kimonos closed and in place under robes.

O-Bon: Festival held in summer to commemorate and transfer merit to one's ancestors, especially those recently departed. This festival is accompanied by a service (segaki) and offerings. Bon is from the Sanscrit word, "Ullambara" (being hung upside down) and symbolizes the suffering of all beings. This service is to relieve that sufffering.

Ordination: [ordain] (n, v) the act of granting religious authority; to officially grant religious or ministerial authority.

Oryoko: The bowls given to a Buddhist upon being ordained, particularly the largest of these bowls that is used for begging and eating. This word means, "that which holds just enough." [The term "oryoki" is most often used to refer to the nested set of eating bowls which we use during formal meals in the zendo. Specifically it is the first (Buddha bowl) bowl.]

Osho: Priest. The first stage of priesthood, obtained after having shiho.

Outer Alchemy: (n) the branch of Taoist alchemy that used elixirs, which would produce immortality when swallowed. The most important ingredients were cinnabar and gold. As Taoism developed, the belief that immortality must be achieved by ingesting an elixir was supplanted by the doctrine of Inner Alchemy.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:52 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Pali: Ancient language used by the Mahayana, because it was the vernacular language.

Pagoda: (n) multistoried tower, usually but not exclusively associated with Buddhist shrines.

Pantheon: (n) all the gods of a particular religion, people, or nation.

Paranayama: The fourth element in the path of classical Yoga, meaning breathing control.

Para-nirvana (Pari-nibbana): The ultimate state of harmony within the ultimate state of awareness. Para means death, so this is death while in a state of nirvana, returning the physical being to the cosmos, and escaping samsara.

Patriarch: In Buddhism, the patriarchs are the Dharma heirs, the great masters who have formally received the transmission of Buddha's Dharma. Patriarch is a poor term, since there has also been female masters, but is commonly used anyway, especially in the West. [Also used for a patriarch (n) a man who is the head of a family, group, or race]

Patron: (n) one who gives financial support to a person or cause, especially by purchasing a work of art.

Philosophy: The search for and love of wisdom.

Phoenix: (n) according to Taoist tradition, a mythical bird not related to the phoenix of Western mythology, which arises from ashes. The Chinese phoenix is often paired with the dragon. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the phoenix symbolized the empress and the dragon symbolized the emperor. According to ancient Chinese lore, the appearance of the phoenix on the wutong tree was a testament to the peaceful rule of a virtuous emperor.

Popular Religion: (n) belief in local Chinese deities. The majority of these gods, some of whom were added to the Taoist pantheon beginning in the Song dynasty, are associated with mountains, cities, springs, trees, human heroes, or animal spirits. [In Japan this can be said of the Shinto Earth Bound Religion]

Practice: The term may be used in one way to refer to one's continued zazen (i.e., one's "practice") or understood in a broader sense to include any and all aspects of one's life as practice.

Prajna: Essential wisdom. Prajna Paramita is wisdom perfection.

Primordial: (adj) existing at or from the beginning

Pratyahara: The fifth element in the path of classical Yoga, meaning the elimination of the outer perceptions.

Pratyekabuddha: Solitary practitioners who attain Buddhahood without a teacher. These are private Buddhas.

Precepts: Teachings regarding personal conduct; rules of conduct, especially for the ordained. Also called kai. In the Mahayana school there are ten precepts that must be avoided: killing, stealing, lying, drinking alcohol or selling alcohol to be drunk, speaking badly of others, praising oneself while disparaging others, not willingly giving spiritual or material aid, anger, or disparaging the Three Treasures (Buddha Gautama, the Dharma, and the sangha). [At both jukai and tokudo ceremonies, sixteen precepts (kai) are received.]

Proselytizing: Actively seeking to convert others to one's own beliefs.

Pure Land: Form of Buddhism that survived the persecution of Buddhism in the ninth century C.E. in China. This school emphasizes meditation to see the Pure Land (the land we go to when we die, a western paradise, purity revealed in enlightenment) and Amitabha Buddha. Founded by Hui-yuan ca. 402 C.E. Oldest and least philosophical school of Mahayana Buddhism in China. Also called: White Lotus sect by Hui Yuan, Ching T'u (in China), and Jodoshu (in Japan).

Qi: (pronounced: chee) (n) literally air, water, vapor, or breath-a central concept in Taoism, Chinese medicine, philosophy, and art in general. Qi refers to the rhythmic energy that constitutes each and every thing. In Taoism, energy and matter are one and the same?thus all people are actually qi itself.

Qin dynasty: (221 - 207 B.C.) dynasty in which China was unified under the first emperor, Qin Shi Huang Di. He established central rule and standardized weights, measures, coins, and the writing system. Some claim that it was his idea to create the Great Wall in 214 B.C. to protect China from invasion. He was a particular believer in the notion of immortality and is famous for his terracotta army of over 7,000 life-size pottery soldiers, found buried near his tomb in the early 1970s.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:52 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Qing dynasty: (1644 - 1911) period during which the Manchus, foreigners from central Asia, took advantage of Ming imperial weakness and successfully occupied China. During this period, China became the most heavily populated country in the world. While the Manchu emperors adopted many aspects of Chinese culture and political philosophy, they also actively strove to retain their native identity. Traditional Chinese art and culture continued to flourish, however, often with imperial sponsorship. Although Qing-dynasty officials practiced Tibetan Buddhism, they sponsored Taoist rituals and maintained a Taoist temple in Beijing.

Queen Mother of the West: The Taoist goddess who rules over the western paradise and is the head of a pantheon of goddesses and female immortals. In her garden, she grows the peaches of immortality.

Rahula: Son of Gautama Siddharta and Yasodhara.

Raja: The way to god through psychophysical exercise in Yoga. This is the royal way of Yoga, but not the fastest way to self realization.

Rakusu: A small kolomo/kesa worn during work. [The smallest of the Buddhist robes, the rakusu is made of five strips of cloth which are sewn together and suspended from the neck by a cloth halter. It is worn by monks, nuns, and lay persons. It is received during the jukai ceremony.]

Religion: Derived from the Latin word religio, meaning to bind or bring together. Religion is that which brings people together.

Religious Taoism: (n) a term used to define Taoism as an organized, institutionalized religion as opposed to the original philosophical tradition. Religious Taoism developed between the second and fifth centuries A.D. and built on the earlier philosophical foundations. Unlike philosophical Taoism, religious Taoism incorporated new ritual practices and religious institutions, established a priesthood, defined the Taoist Canon, and created a pantheon of deities.

Ren: From Confucianism, ren is the principle of humaneness.

Rinzai: Sudden School of Zen emphasizing the use of koans. It is a teacher centered school, where meditation is done facing the center of the room. The Rinzai school was brought to Japan by Eisai.

Roshi: "Venerable teacher." Generally one who presides over a monastery, the master, who gives Zen instruction. This title is best used as a non-title, as the office of Roshi is not one of status, but of being. The roshi can be a layman or laywoman, whose function is to guide disciples, not to dominate, control, or influence the private lives of the disciples.[A rarely received title in which the one who receives it has beed widely recognized as a Master of the Dharma.]

Rubbing: (n) a copy of a raised, inscribed, or textured surface made by placing paper over it and rubbing the paper with a colored substance

Ru ja: Chinese name for the school of Confucius (Confucianism).

Ryo: The designation for a group of people who all serve one particular function in the zendo (e.g., Doan-ryo: all those who function as doans during service).

Ryoban: The positions to the east and west of the altar filled by the administrative and training officials during services and ceremonies.

Sacred Mountains: (n, pl) sites where qi is most refined, the ingredients for elixirs of longevity are found, and immortals dwell. The Taoist sacred mountain connects heaven and earth. By the Han dynasty, the Five Sacred Peaks and other holy mountains were worshiped.

Saddharma Pundarika Sutra (Lotus Sutra: J: Myoho Renge Kyo) A presentation of Buddha's teaching, in verse and prose, of the one vehicle and all beings being able to attain perfect enlightenment. One of the most widely read Buddhist texts.

Saijojo: The form of Zen that emphasizes realization without support, through shikan-taza. This is the form of Zen most emphasized in the Soto school.

Samadhi: A state of higher concentration in meditation. There are three stages in Buddhism (preparation, beginning, and attainment of concentration). Samadhi is the eighth element in the classical path of Yoga, meaning absorption, becoming one with, harmonizing. There are two forms of samadhi in Yoga (with and without support). The greater form of samadhi in Yoga is without support.

Samantabhadra Bodhisattva: (j: fugen) One of the three principal bodhisattvas, Samantabhadra is associated with practice and active love.

Sambo: Platform shaped tray used to carry different ritual items.

Sampai: The prostrating bows performed during practice, where the forehead touches the ground and the hands are held palms up next to the head. The hand gesture is symbolic, according to tradition, of recieving the feet of Buddha. This is a sign of profound respect and reverence, although not necessarily for Buddha or any other thing in particular. It is respect for the self, and a position that teaches humility and impermanence.

Samsara: The endless cycle of reincarnation; transmigration. Literally means to move about continuously.

Samu: Working Zen practice, especially physical labor.
[Communal work done at the Center. Samu is working zazen.]

Sangemon: The gatha of repentance chanted during fusatsu.

Sangha: A group, who together practice religious Buddhism; a community of Buddhist practitioners. Also used to refer to the Buddhist monastic order.

Sanzen: An interview of a student by a master. Used especially in the Rinzai school.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:54 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Satori: A state of consciousness, often associated with enlightenment. Satori is an awareness of Buddha nature, similar to Tao-sheng's concept of enlightenment. In this text satori is placed one step below enlightenment. Satori is essential wisdom (prajna) for the practice of Zen. See also kensho.

Sayumonjun: Standing bows done after the morning meal; done to the left, right, and center.

Scepter: (n) a staff or baton carried as an emblem of authority

Seal: (n) an impression in the form of an emblem stamped on a document, painting, or piece of calligraphy to document authorship, ownership, or general appreciation. Seals and inscriptions might also be added to a work over the course of centuries, as the work passes from collector to collector; thus, the study of seals can reveal the history of a work. Seal carving was considered to be a gentleman's pastime in China, and many modern Chinese artists still carve their own seals. The emblems themselves may be carved in stone or ivory. Impressions are always made in red ink.

Secular: (adj) of or relating to the worldly or temporal; not connected with religion.

Seiza: Traditional Japanese sitting posture, with the buttocks on the heels of the feet, large toes crossed, and a straight posture. This is a typical posture assumed in martial arts dojos.

Self-cultivation: (n) program of meditation and self-discipline that may include scripture study, restricted diet, and breathing exercises designed to bring the individual to a state of spiritual purity

Sensei: Lit. "one who goes before on the path." [A certified Teacher.] Used for a certified teacher in the Martial Arts. [Karate is but one of the Martial Arts. The term Karate came from Shotokan in Japan]

Sesshin: An intensive meditation retreat lasting from two to ten days. Sesshin offers the best opportunity for deep, intense practice, and should be approached with an attitude of total willingness to give one's all.

Setsu: The scraper (spatula) used to wipe and clean the eating bowls during formal meals. In Japan a cloth-tipped stick is used.

Seventy-two labors: The traditional number of positions (jobs) in a Japanese monastery.

Shashu: Hand position used when walking or standing in the zendo (left hand in a fist, thumb tucked in and covered by the right hand; both are placed against the solar plexus).

Shiho (transmission) The week-long ceremony in which an accomplished student becomes a Dharma successor to a master, and is recognized by him/her as a Teacher (Sensei). This is a Soto sect term.

Shang Dynasty: (c. 1600 - c. 1050 B.C.) dynasty that marks the first great flourishing of Bronze-Age China. Materials recovered from this period include ceremonial bronze vessels and jade implements. Early Chinese writing from the Shang dynasty has also been recovered, in the form of inscriptions on oracle bones used for divination ceremonies.

Shastra: A commentary on a sutra.

Shikan-taza: Meditation without any object, without counting, focus on breathing, nor koans. It is intense sitting, where there is unshakeable conviction that zazen is the actualization, and there is nothing else to gain. At the root, this frame of thought realizes that there is not a struggle involved in the attainment of satori. [The purest form of sitting meditation literally meaning "just sitting." According to Dogen Zenji, it is a state of brightly alert attention that is free of thought, directed to no object, and attached to no particular content.]

Shogun: (n) (literally, "general") one of a line of military leaders in Japan until the revolutions in the middle of the 19th century, when the emperor was restored in the Meiji period (1868 - 1912).

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:55 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Shoji: Attendant to Manjusri (image on the zendo altar); makes offering during formal meals.

Shojo: The Hinayana form of Zen, or Lesser Vehicle. This form, as opposed to the Daijo, is very individualistic, intending to take only the practitioner from maya to nirvana.

Shokei: Small keisu (gong).

Shoken no ha:i Shoken = to meet individually; hai = bowing. This ceremony is a formal expression of the relationship that the teacher and student have entered into.

Shoki: The head monk's assistant for Ango.

Shosan: A public Dharma dialogue presented in a ritualized, ceremonial style. The Shosanshi (Shosan leader, either Teacher or a senior monk) gives a short Dharma talk and then holds dialogue with those attending the event. These students come up one at a time and kneel facing the Shosanshi. They either ask a question or make a comment on the opening talk given by the Shosanshi; dialogue ensues. Traditionally, the shosan form was the only means for study with a teacher; only in later Zen history did private study develop. Shosan is generally held once a month during intensive training periods and may or may not be held at other times

Shosu: A service position: the person who plays the densho and sometimes the han.

Shukke tokudo: see Tokudo.

Shuso: The head monk for Ango.

Shuso Hossen: Ceremony of testing the Shuso's understanding (aka Dharma Combat).

Sichuan (Szechwan): a province in southwestern China noted for its warm climate, fertile farmland, and abundance of natural resources; the birthplace of religious Taoism.

Silk Roads: (n, pl) the long and arduous routes by which traders, missionaries, and others traveled between China and the ancient Middle East, so named because silk traveled to the Mediterranean along these routes. The Silk Roads stretched across northwest China into central Asia and then southward to what is now Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India, and finally westward toward the Middle East and the Mediterranean. The Silk Roads were active as early as the Han dynasty and thrived through the cosmopolitan Tang dynasty. Buddhism made its way from India to China along these routes (as well as the Southern Sea route).

Six Paramitas: The perfections practiced by the bodhisattva. They are prajna (wisdom), dana (giving), virya (effort), dhyana (meditation), kshanti (patience), and sila (kai or precepts).

Six Realms: The different states of existence (heavenly beings, human, animal, hungry ghosts, fighting spirits, hell-dwellers) that symbolize different aspects of our -life.

Jan 8, 2008 @ 11:55 AM Glossary of Buddhism, Taoism and Zen Terms

yashaenka

Posts: 8,262 Six Tastes: Bitter, sour, sweet, hot, salty, and bland.

Skandha: The five elements that comprise an individual. These are: form (rupam), perception through the senses (vedana), thought (samjna), conformation (samskara), and consciousness (vijnana).

Sodo: A dojo that is used for training monks.

Sogei: The person who rings the hand-bell (inkan) to lead the officiant in and out of the zendo. The Sogei is one of the three attendants.

Solstice: (n) either of the two times of the year when the sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon, marking the longest and shortest days of the year and the change of seasons

Son: Korean name for Zen.

Song Dynasty: (960 - 1279) period of reunification after the disruptive Five Dynasties period (906 - 960) Not a strong military power, the Song turned to maritime trade. The publication of handbooks and encyclopedias promoted the widespread dissemination of information. Mining, metal-casting, and industrial mass production reached a high level as water and road transportation improved. During the Song dynasty, "Neo-Confucianism," a reinvigoration of traditional Confucianism with Buddhist and Taoist ideas, developed. In religious Taoism, Inner Alchemy rose in importance and popular deities were incorporated into the tradition. Song emperors were among the greatest imperial patrons of the arts in Chinese history. Likewise, members of the civil-service bureaucracy, educated in literary, historical, and artistic traditions, shaped a new and potent artistic taste that continues to affect Chinese art today.

Sosan: Listening to the general lectures of the roshi, the Dharma talks. This is usually mandatory for beginners, and is done in groups.

Soto: School of Zen emphasizing meditation and formalism. It is a student centered school, where students determine their own koans. Meditation is performed facing the walls of the dojo. This school was brought to Japan by Dogen. [Also known as the Slow School of Enlightenment]

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