• Bodhidharma Brought Zen from India to China in the 6th century; emphasized direct insight beyond words.
• Buddha The awakening that is possible in every human being.
• Dharma The teaching, the path, or the essence of existence.
• Dokusan A personal meeting with a teacher.
• Heart Sutra A core text on form and emptiness.
• Kinhin Walking meditation.
• Kōan A paradoxical question that opens insight.
• Lineage A lineage refers to a historical line of teachers and students, passed down from generation to generation, which shapes the style, emphasis, and teaching approach of a particular Zen tradition.
• Mudra A symbolic hand gesture supporting meditation and concentration.
• Nirvana Liberation from craving, aversion, and confusion.
• Rōshi An honorific title for an experienced teacher.
• Satori A moment of sudden insight or awakening.
• Sesshin A meditation retreat.
• Zafu Round meditation cushion.
• Zazen Seated meditation, the core of Zen.
• Zeisokukan Following the breath without counting.
• Zendo The hall where Zen is practiced.