Abbreviation of Japanese zenna, `quiet mind
concentration', a form of Buddhism introduced
from India to Japan via China in the 12th
century. Koan (paradoxical questions),
tea-drinking, and sudden enlightenment are
elements of Zen practice. Soto Zen was spread
by the priest Dogen (1200-1253), who
emphasized work, practice, discipline, and
philosophical questions to discover one's
Buddha-nature in the `realization of self'.