" Satori is the Japanese word for enlightenment in the Zen Buddhist tradition, but you may have heard of one of its other names: "oh" in Korean, "wù" in Chinese. The final goal of Zen is that one might, in a flash, perceive the world in an entirely new and complete way. To this level of understanding, to this grasp of the infinities of the universe, to this peace, Zen Buddhists aspire.
When experienced briefly, it may be called Kensho; a momentary flash of greater conception of the whole. But fleeting glimpses of the greatness of the universe do not mean enlightenment. One must build on these experiences, and through practice and repetition, learn to not only sustain such vision, but alter one's way of perception. This is Satori. As the parable tells us, attaining Satori is like learning to walk. A baby takes a few steps (Kensho) but falls; eventually he learns to stand and walk without falling (Satori).
Enlightenment does not simply befall an individual; Zen tradition teaches us to aspire to be enlightened. One's mind must be prepared by thorough study, the use of koans (zen riddles), and mediation to clear one's mind of all attachments to the physical. When Satori comes, it may be brief. It will be at first shallow. Like wading into a lake, each new step brings greater depth of understanding.
The feeling of enlightenment is one of the comprehension of the boundlessness of all creation. It is a feeling of peace and serenity with the natural harmony and beauty of the universe. What is to happen will happen, must happen, has always happened. Even when individual agents contribute to a greater whole with their own intentions, they are but servants to a greater order which they cannot control. To understand this great and mysterious order is Satori. "
10.20.2008
Satori
