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  1. Koan - Wikipedia

    In Chinese Chan and Korean Seon Buddhism, meditating on a huatou, a key phrase of a kōan, is also a major Zen meditation method. The Japanese word kōan is the Sino-Japanese pronunciation of the …

  2. 10 Buddhist koans, and why understanding them is pointless

    Dec 31, 2018 · To go beyond meaning you might need a helpful phrase. Koans are one of the most meaningful practices in Zen Buddhism. Usually translated as “nonsensical,” the sentences have …

  3. KOAN Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

    The meaning of KOAN is a paradox to be meditated upon that is used to train Zen Buddhist monks to abandon ultimate dependence on reason and to force them into gaining sudden intuitive enlightenment.

  4. - List of Koans - A culture for transformation.

    We feature a list of koans, from many sources, in our KALPA Library, many of which are linked to archived dharma talks. As a PZI member, you have unlimited access to everything we post in the …

  5. Koan | Riddles, Parables, Parables & Koans | Britannica

    Koans (from Chinese kung-an, literally “public notice,” or “public announcement”) are based on anecdotes of Zen (Chinese: Ch’an) masters. There are said to be 1,700 koans in all.

  6. Koan: Overview, Context & Key Ideas — Key Facts — Key Facts

    Feb 21, 2019 · A koan (pronounced /ko.an/) is a story, dialog, question, or statement in the history and lore of Chan (Zen) Buddhism, generally containing aspects that are inaccessible to rational …

  7. Koan - New World Encyclopedia

    A koan (pronounced /ko.an/ Japanese 公案) is a story, dialog, question, or statement from the history and lore of Chan (Zen) Buddhism, generally containing aspects that are inaccessible to rational …

  8. Common Koan Examples and Their Meanings Explained Simply

    Koans are mystical riddles or paradoxical statements used in Zen Buddhism to provoke deep thought and illuminate the nature of reality beyond logical reasoning. They serve as tools for meditation, …

  9. Buddhist Koan Meditation: What & How

    Oct 2, 2024 · Koan meditation is a traditional Zen Buddhist practice that uses paradoxical riddles or statements (called koans) to challenge the mind, break habitual thought patterns, and lead to deep …

  10. Koans Explained: Bridging Logic and Enlightenment

    Apr 2, 2025 · What is a Koan? A koan (公案) is a short, often paradoxical statement or question used in Zen practice to provoke deep thought and facilitate spiritual insight.