Zen Teachings & Beliefs

1. All sentient beings have Buddha-nature.
2. Knowledge can be acquired from all aspects of life.
3. Such knowledge helps to achieve enlightenment.
4. The six paramitas (perfections) are the six principles of enlightened living. They are:
   • Dana paramita: unattached generosity, boundless openness. Open heart, mind and hand.
   • Sila paramita: virtue, morality.
   • Shanti paramita: patience, tolerance, acceptance, endurance.
   • Virya paramita: energy, diligence, courage, enthusiasm, effort.
   • Dhyana paramita: meditation, absorption, concentration, contemplation.
   • Prajna: transcendental wisdom.
5. Meditation and mindfulness help in achieving new insights which leads to enlightenment.
6. The experiencing of mu (or 'wu', the lack pf presence, emptiness) leads to satori (spiritual awakening)