Zen is best understood as a school of Buddhism, but how it is practised and perceived can make it seem like a religion, a philosophy, or even a way of life, depending on context.
1. As a Religion
Zen is a branch of Mahayana Buddhism, particularly influential in Japan, China (as Chan), Korea (Seon), and Vietnam (Thiền). As such, it has:
- Temples and monastic traditions
- Rituals and ceremonies
- Moral precepts and ethical codes
- A belief system rooted in Buddhist teachings such as karma, rebirth, and enlightenment (satori)
For many monks and lay practitioners, it is clearly a religious path.
2. As a Philosophy
Zen is often associated with:
- Simplicity
- Mindfulness
- Non-duality
- Direct experience over doctrine
Its emphasis on meditation (zazen) and the rejection of rigid scriptures or intellectualism gives it a philosophical quality, particularly attractive to people who are spiritual but not religious.
3. As a Practice or Way of Life
Outside of religious contexts, Zen is sometimes adopted simply as a method of:
- Meditation
- Self-discipline
- Awareness in daily life
This is particularly common in the West, where people may say they “practise Zen” without subscribing to its religious aspects.
In Summary:
Zen is historically a school of Mahayana Buddhism (religion), but it is often approached as a philosophy or way of life, especially in secular or Western contexts. Its flexibility is part of why it resonates with such a broad range of people.
