There are a number of terms and references in Zen literature that require context to aid in understanding.
Below is a selection of some of the more common ones that frequently arise. For a more exhaustive list, check out Lion’s Roar Buddhist Glossary
Absolute/Relative
Absolute is oneness, emptiness, the true nature of reality.
Relative is its phenomenal manifestation.
Bodhi Mind
The impulse that moves one towards self-realization.
Bodhicitta
Bodhissatva
Dharma
- Universal truth or law;
- the Buddha’s teachings;
- all phenomena that make up reality.
Dogen
Author of the Shobogenzo, an important collection of Dharma essays
Dukkha
It is the first of the Four Noble Truths (Life is suffering).
Enlightenment
Equanimity
The virtue and value of equanimity is extolled and advocated by a number of major religions and ancient philosophies.
Hara
Area in the lower belly used to center one’s attention in meditation and any activity.
Karma
The linking of an action’s underlying intention to that action’s consequences.
Mara
The demon that tempted Prince Siddhartha (Guatama Buddha) by trying to seduce him with the vision of beautiful women who, in various legends, are often said to be Mara’s daughters.
Nekkhamma
Also conveys more specifically “giving up the world and leading a holy life” or “freedom from lust, craving and desires.”
In Buddhism’s Eightfold Path, nekkhamma is the first practice associated with “Right Intention.”
Prajna
Not the type which is possessed, but that which is directly and thoroughly experienced.
Samadhi
A complete state of concentration. The mind’s ultimate state of being. Enlightenment. The preliminary state to nirvana.
Samsara
The opposite of nirvana, which is being free from this cycle of suffering. Nirvana is realized through enlightenment.
Tao
The nameless and unnameable source of all things.
Three Poisons
The characteristics of human existence that arise out of a deluded view of the universe.