ZEN SYMBOLISM IN THE SPACE OF CULTURE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31392/cult.alm.2024.4.6Keywords:
Zen Buddhism, symbolism, emptiness, Enso, satori, immediacy, silence, Japanese culture, meditation, Zen philosophy, art, calligraphy, painting, perception, harmony, Zen symbols, cultural contexts, inner peaceAbstract
The article is devoted to the study of the symbolism of Zen Buddhism and its significance in various cultural contexts. Zen, a philosophical tradition that originated in China and developed in Japan, offers unique symbols reflected in art, literature, and everyday life. Zen symbols such as Emptiness (空), Satori (悟り), Enso (円相), Silence (沈黙), Wabi-Sabi (侘寂), and the Here-And-Now Moment (瞬間) help to realize one’s place in the world. The emptiness of Zen is not an absence but indicates openness to new beginnings, which makes it possible to realize the potential for change in every moment. Satori reflects sudden moments of clarity that change the perception of reality. These moments are manifested in art and literature, providing an opportunity to experience their moments of enlightenment. The Enso, a circle drawn in one movement of the brush, symbolizes the infinity and nature of the mind, emphasizing that perfection is a process, not an achievement. He emphasizes the importance of immediate experience and the moment “here and now”. As a symbol of pacification, silence is of great importance in Zen Buddhism. It represents understanding without words and serves as an expression of truth due to the lack of language. In today’s world, where information noise has become the norm, silence serves as a space for reflection. “Wabi-Sabi” permeates all the art of Zen, focusing on the simplicity and beauty of the imperfect and the significance of momentary, focusing on living each individual moment of life. The article examines examples from Japanese culture, such as calligraphy, painting, and stone gardens that embody these symbols. Traditional calligraphy, in particular, is a writing technique and a meditative practice that explores the symbolism of emptiness. Furthermore, the article analyzes the influence of Zen on Western art and philosophy, specifically in the works of John Cage in music, Jim Jarmusch in film, and Tadao Ando in architecture, who use Zen concepts to emphasize the importance of minimalism, contemplation, and improvisation. In the context of global cultural processes, Zen symbols serve as a compass pointing the way to inner peace and understanding. In conclusion, it is emphasized that Zen symbolism is a powerful tool for making sense of contemporary experience, enriching our knowledge of culture and philosophy. These symbols, which continue to live in art, invite us to delve into the depths of our consciousness, seek truth, and find harmony in everyday life.
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