Zen Essence: The Science of Freedom

by Thomas Cleary (Translator)

The teachings presented here offer a new view of Zen Buddhism that may surprise some readers. In contrast to the popular image of Zen as being an authoritarian, monastic tradition deeply rooted in Asian culture, this collection of teachings portrays Zen as being remarkably flexible, adaptive to contemporary and individual needs, and transcending cultural boundaries. Because of the very nature of Zen, its essence does not belong to any particular culture or philosophy. Its practice requires consciousness alone and does not depend on a background in Zen Buddhism or Asian culture. The essence of Zen applies directly to the relationship between mind and culture, whatever that culture might be. Therefore it relates immediately to the way in which the world is experienced and life is lived. Drawn from the records of the great Chinese Zen masters of the Tang and Song dynasties, this collection represents the most open and direct forms of instruction in the entire Zen canon. What emerges is a picture of Zen, not as a religion or philosophy, but as a practical science of freedom. The translator provides a detailed afterword describing the historical and cultural background of the development of Chinese Zen.

Genres: Zen, Buddhism, Philosophy, Nonfiction, Religion, Eastern Philosophy, Spirituality

184 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1989

About the author

Dr. Thomas Francis Cleary, Ph.D. (East Asian Languages and Civilizations, Harvard University; J.D., Boalt Hall School of Law, University of California, Berkeley), was a prolific translator of Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian, and Muslim classics, with a particular emphasis on popular translations of Mahāyāna works relevant to the Chan, Zen, and Soen systems.

Reviews

[Franky 2 Beers]

This book has been a real treasure to me. I have carried it with me for the better part of 20 years on several continents. I have remembered it enough to always know exactly where it is and what it has written inside.

[Chris]

Beautifully and freshly translated teachings form zen masters along with an excellent commentary and overview by Cleary, that is very succinct and useful. Stresses the adaptability of zen to any culture or situation.

[Reminiscence]

For the curious and those with a dry sense of humor.

[Michael C]

I love this book. As I read it I feel like I am having a conversation with wisdom itself. I have never read anything else like it and I am mesmerized by it. I have read it numerous times and will read it many more times.

[Jughead]

Another fantastic collection of Chan teachings from the Master! This is one I read often, it includes samplings from many of the Grand Masters of Chan Buddhism. Thomas Cleary is by far, the best translator of Chan records.

[Robert Francisco]

Another short and sweet read that cuts through to the core with one fell swoop

[Stephy]

Translations by Thomas Cleary of teachings from eighteen Buddhist Masters, this is a handy take-along contemplative reader.

[Michael Anderson]

Collection of teachings and sayings of Chinese Zen masters, most interesting and a few that really made me think. The author's afterword is well worth reading.

[Lysergius]

This is an incredibly concise collection of advice and guidance for the seeker. It bears several readings and deep consideration of the advice given.

[Tom]

Sayings from the teachings of the great zen masters