The Koan

Koans are enigmatic spiritual formulas used for religious training in the Zen Buddhist tradition. Arguing that our understanding of the koan tradition has been severely limited, contributors to this collection examine previously unrecognized factors in the formation of this tradition, and highlight the rich complexity and diversity of koan practice and literature.

“This book includes essays that cover everything you need to know about koans, and explore the controversies surrounding them ... the book is valuable not only for those interested in koans and Zen but also for people who want to know how a tradition constitutes itself, how it grows, and how it has described itself over time.”

Anyone obliged to teach the history of Zen Buddhism will welcome this book ... The editors are to be congratulated on bringing such a wealth of fresh research into the public domain. Buddhist Studies Review Dharma Life

Steven Heine is at Florida International University. Dale S. Wright is at Occidental College.

Koans are enigmatic spiritual formulas used for religious training in the Zen Buddhist tradition. Arguing that our understanding of the koan tradition has been severely limited, contributors to this collection examine previously unrecognized factors in the formation of this tradition, and highlight the rich complexity and diversity of koan practice and literature.

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