Definition

A puzzling statement or story used in Zen Buddhism to help with meditation and achieve spiritual insight.

Example

The monk contemplated the koan for hours, seeking deeper understanding.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the meaning of a koan?

Not really, what is it exactly?

It's a kind of puzzle used in Zen Buddhism to help with meditation.

That sounds interesting! I might look into some koans to reflect on.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Koan → The word 'koan' originates from Japanese (公案), where 'kō' (公) means public or official, and 'an' (案) means case or proposal. In Zen Buddhism, a koan is a public case or question used for meditation and teaching.

Memory Tip

Imagine a 'public case' in Zen practice that helps you meditate and reflect deeply — that's what a koan is.

Visually Confused Words