The word 'Zen' is considered by many to be an abbreviation for Zen Buddhism. However, today Zen is not tied to any particular group: it is a way of life, discipline and thinking. Zen practitioners use sayings and scriptures to help them uncover the secrets of the universe. The most often used is the Koan, a nonsensical question given to students for meditation. The answer to one of the best-known Koans 'What is the sound of one hand clapping?' is, of course, 'silence', the silence that permeates the universe. And for most of us unattainable without a good deal of practice, here is a treasury of such jewels of thought.

Auteur

William Wray started his writing career as a playwright before producing a number of books of philosophical reflections including: The Book of Reflections, The Book of Decisions, The Book of Spirit and New Life. He is at present working on a series of books devoted to the writings of the wise, which includes the recently published Sayings of the Buddha. He has a particular interest in the ideas of the Renaissance and has written Venus, a practical reconsideration of Platonic Love, and recently collaborated on a book of the drawings of Leonardo. In addition to his writing he has prepared and taught courses in practical philosophy and has run Symposium, which organises lectures, workshops and seminars on linked philosophical themes. In addition he organises Art Symposium, a forum in which people who have made a notable contribution to the arts may speak freely of their inspiration and aspirations.