Are there any parallels to the koan in other cultures?

Yes, there are several parallels to the koan in other cultures and spiritual traditions, where paradoxical statements, riddles, or questions are used to provoke deeper insight, challenge conventional thinking, or lead to spiritual awakening. Here are a few examples:

Sufi Mysticism (Islamic Tradition)
Sufi tales and poetry often use paradoxical language and stories to convey spiritual truths. The teachings of Sufi mystics like Rumi and Hafiz contain many examples of riddles and paradoxes that are meant to transcend ordinary logic and guide the seeker towards a direct experience of the divine.
An example is the teaching story of Nasreddin Hodja, a folk character known for his humorous and paradoxical anecdotes that often carry deeper spiritual lessons.