Zem.

Following my post yesterday, Lurkersim and I came up with a new term: Zem. A fourth-generation (mis)pronunciation of the word Dhyana [dhyana>chan>zen>zem].

Dhyana= Sanskrit for yogic meditation.

Chan= Chinese name for Bodhidharma's lineage in China. Focus on Chinese masters' texts such as Hsin Hsin Ming, Mumonkan, Blue Cliff Record, Huangbo, etc. with mention of Indian Buddhist traditions. Name borrowed from "Dhyana".

Zen= Japanese name for Japanese Buddhist sects. Strong focus on Japanese masters and texts such as Dogen's Shobogenzo and Hakuin's Koan system, and Buddhist traditions such as meditation (Zazen) and chanting, and moral codes such as vows and precepts. Mention of Chinese masters and Indian Buddhist traditions. Claim lineage through Bodhidharma all the way back to Buddha. Revitalized in the West in mid 20th century. Name borrowed from "Chan".

Zem= English name for refocused contemporary study of Chan thought. Arises from worldwide dissemination of all above texts, and compararive study thereof, with the great help of the internet. Acknowledge Bodhidharma's lineage but also that he was most likely a composite character. Does not trace lineage all the way back to Buddha. Rejects most Buddhist doctrine as well as systemized practices found in Japanese Zen. Focus on "seeing one's true nature" by any means necessary. No moral code or specific doctrine, no monasteries or temples, no uniforms. Name borrowed from "Zen".

....yes, it's a joke.

Submitted September 01, 2019 at 11:22PM by brahmmyboy https://ift.tt/2zLFWJS