Zen: Images, Texts, and Teachings

by Lucien Stryk

The simplicity, directness, wisdom, and humor of Zen have acted as a source of spiritual guidance to thousands of people for generations. It's no surprise, then, that Americans have embraced it wholeheartedly in recent years, establishing the need for a book like Zen. A visually pleasing, gorgeously tactile gift book, it gathers together major Zen writings in one place. Soothing photographs accompany the poems and koans, revealing to beginners and experienced practitioners alike the enigma and harmony of this ancient tradition. An introduction helps readers approach the text, providing some history of the teachings as well as the philosophy behind them. A glossary and bibliography round out this unique anthology.

Genres: Japan

160 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2000

About the author

Lucien Stryk was born in Poland in 1924, and moved to the United States in 1927.
He was a student of the Indiana University Bloomington, the University of Maryland, the Sorbonne, the University of London, and the University of Iowa.

Reviews

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved that this book provided a relatable gateway into Zen thinking, practices, and thoughts. I am not enlightened though, so the koans throughout the book tended to make no sense. I will definitely be revisiting this book as I grow in understanding.

[Joe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had an amazing adventure with the beautifully published book.

After rising, I poured a cup of coffee, got out Zen, and I took one lesson a day, whether it was a haiku or koan, and meditated on it, then wrote what came to my mind. Then I began the rest of my day with a charge.

I wound up with 79 short poems, or thoughts, or stories that reflect what was given to me.

I will keep this book on my coffee table to remind myself to be balanced.

Very grateful