Chan/Zen Buddhism

Chan, popularly known as "Zen" in Japanese, is a major Chinese school of Mahayana Buddhism whose influence extends well beyond religious traditions into philosophy, culture, and aesthetics. This introductory course provides students with a solid foundation in Chan Buddhism, its historical development, and its central philosophical concerns. Designed primarily for students in theology, philosophy, and religious studies, the course is also open to students from other disciplines interested in Buddhist thought in its Chinese context. A central focus is the Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch, one of the most important Chan texts. Through lectures, readings, and discussion, students will examine key issues in Chan studies, including textual history, interpretation, and philosophical significance. No prior background in Buddhism or Classical Chinese is required, though engagement with selected original Chinese passages is encouraged.