Zen & Taoism

Catalog description

The Zen tradition is deeply rooted in Taoism. In truth, it was born from, and is an extension of, Taoist ontology. This course will explore what lies at the heart of both of these traditions by examining the cultural context, art, and narratives produced by these enigmatic schools of thought. This profoundly rich spiritual heritage has much to offer the modern world. Its ability to abide in uncertainty and seek awareness outside the confines of rational thought provide a respite from the tangles of dualism so dominant in the West. The ephemeral nature of this lineage offers a redemptive spaciousness amidst the clutter and distortions of the 21st century.