What are the main branches of daoism?

Answer 1

Zen Buddhism is the Japanese form of Ch'an Buddhism which originated in China with the Indian monk Bodhidharma. Historically there have been a number of lineages of Ch'an and Zen but presently it takes the form of two main schools - Sōtō and Rinzai. There are also some forms of Zen which combine the two forms, especially in the west.

Sōtō Zen has its origins in the Caodang school of Ch'an Buddhism and the silent illumination teachings of Hongzhe. However, its origin is usually taken to rest with Eihei Dōgen (1200-1253) in the 13th century with Soji Keizan (1268-1325) being another important figure in the development of this school. Sōtō Zen emphasises 'just sitting' meditation (shikantaza) and the notion that practice itself is enlightenment. Historically it was the school of the peasant class rather than aristocracy.

Rinzai Zen traces its lineage back to Linji in 9th century China, although the current form of the school owes much to Hakuin Ekaku (1686-1768) who re-invigorated and revived it. In contrast to Sōtō Zen, Rinzai places a large emphasis on enlightenment experiences known as kensho (insight or awakening). Kensho is often achieved through the contemplation of koans, which are presentations of historic encounters between Ch'an masters of the past which pose seemingly confusion questions about reality. The most famous of these is probably "What is the sound of one hand clapping?".

Rinzai was the first of the Zen schools to come to the west with DT Suzuki popularising the form with his writings in the 20th century. Philip Kapleau's 'Three Pillars of Zen' was also of great influence.

Sōtō Zen came to the west with teachers such as Katagiri Roshi and Shuryu Suzuki Roshi, whose book 'Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind' is considered a Buddhist classic.