What does KOANS mean?

Parts of Speech

Koans is a noun.

Definitions

Koans are paradoxical riddles or stories used in Zen Buddhism to provoke contemplation and insight.

Pronunciations

US: /ˈkoʊ.ænz/

UK: /ˈkəʊ.ænz/

Origin and Usage

Koans originated in China during the Tang dynasty and were later adopted by Zen Buddhism. They are used as a teaching tool to help students reach enlightenment by challenging their logical and rational thinking and encouraging them to think beyond their usual patterns of thought.

Synonyms

None

Related Words

None

Example Sentences

1. "The Zen master presented the student with a koan to contemplate."
2. "The koan What is the sound of one hand clapping? is a famous example of a Zen riddle."
3. "The koan challenged the students assumptions and forced them to think in a new way."