What is Zen? It is a word that has many different
meanings. The word Zen is a Japanese (禪) word and concept derived from
the Chinese Chán (禪) which originates from the Sanskrit dhyāna (ध्यान)
meaning meditation. Zen religion is a branch of Mahāyāna Buddhism that
focuses primarily on meditation in pursuit of enlightenment based on
Buddha's teachings with influence from Taoist and Confucius teachings.
Yet, beyond Buddhism, Zen has an openness that transcends all religions
and non secular beliefs and allows all that seek truth a path and means
to the mystical transformation of consciousness.
And with this, the concept of Zen goes far beyond its original sacred
teachings, and is now commonly used to describe many of the metaphysical
concepts in the Western world. It is the epiphany of serendipity, the
feeling of euphoria while surrounded by the magnificence of nature, and
the bliss of finding inner peace that arises from seeking Zen.
Many backpackers are in fact Zen Seekers. Even though
they may not be able to explain or be aware of why they venture out into
the outdoors, many are doing so to experience an inner peace that comes
from being connected with nature. And with stoves, Zen may be present
with a simple system that heats our meals and drink without taking away
from the unadulterated surroundings that we travel through.