Symbols and Zen

Symbols and Zen: Portraying the Process of Awakening presents a practice model that combines synergetic Yogacara Buddhism with a series of symbols based on Shakyamuni Buddha's "how to gain Noble Wisdom" teaching of the Lankavatara Sutra. In the Lankavatara Sutra, Buddha explains the steps leading to realization, incorporating Mahayana and Yogacara teachings. Quotations from the sutra are placed in chapter headings and other locations as the guiding concepts for creation of the symbols. Synbols and Zen clarifies the basic concepts and experience, and to provide an inclusive means to adapt the teaching forms into our culture of college, family life, scientific education, and corporate employment. These new forms of study require increased flexibility in order to capture and cultivate the dynamic process of Zen Buddhist awakening primarily for lay practitioners.