Part 6/11:
Dogen famously stated, "To study the way is to study the self, to study the self is to forget the self." This insight suggests that dissolving the ego is crucial for unity with the universe. Zen encourages individuals to let go of attachments that tether them to past regrets or future fears, allowing them to experience freedom in the present.
The Use of Koans in Zen Practice
Another defining characteristic of Zen Buddhism is the use of koans—enigmatic riddles that provoke thought and challenge conventional reasoning. One famous koan asks, "Without moving your lips or tongue, say something about Zen." Such riddles guide practitioners beyond verbal explanations, prompting them to seek understanding that transcends language and logic.