Zen monastic experience, The
Book Description
Step inside the hidden world of Korean Zen monasticism through the eyes of a Western scholar who lived it firsthand. Robert E. Buswell spent five transformative years as a Zen monk in Korea, and his intimate account reveals a spiritual tradition far removed from popular Western misconceptions.
Rather than the rebellious, anti-intellectual stereotype often portrayed in English-language materials, Buswell unveils a disciplined community of contemplatives at Song-gwang-sa monastery who embrace rigorous study, methodical spiritual training, and deep reverence for Buddhist scriptures. These monks are not iconoclastic rebels torching sacred texts or bullying students into sudden enlightenment. Instead, they are dedicated practitioners following an arduous path of systematic spiritual development, often possessing extensive knowledge of classical Chinese and seminary education.
Through detailed observations of postulants, meditation monks, teachers, administrators, and support staff, Buswell presents what he calls a "counterparadigm" of Zen practice. His portrayal connects contemporary monastic life to the broader sweep of Korean history and the historical evolution of the Zen tradition itself.
This sympathetic yet unflinching examination offers readers a rare glimpse into authentic monastic experience, challenging preconceptions while illuminating the genuine devotion and methodical approach that characterizes real Zen practice. For those seeking to understand Buddhism beyond surface impressions, Buswell provides an invaluable window into a living spiritual tradition.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)
📄 Length: 264 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Understand Buddhist philosophy and practice
- ✓ Explore Mönchtum
- ✓ Explore Kloosterleven
- ✓ Discover Zen principles and teachings
- ✓ Explore Bouddhisme
- ✓ Explore Vie religieuse et monastique
- ✓ Explore Zen-Buddhismus
- ✓ Explore Vie religieuse
