Zen Buddhism originated in China and was brought to Japan, focusing on simplicity and meditation. Monks would meditate for hours to achieve enlightenment, which resulted in fearlessness and serenity. Zen masters would prepare students for meditation with puzzles, such as dry rock gardens which have a calming atmosphere to aid meditation. Famous rock gardens like Ryoanji place rocks so all fifteen are never visible at once, with the purpose being to find meaning through meditating on the mystery.

1. Meditation By Andrew C. and Serena J.

2. What is Zen Buddhism and Meditation? Zen Buddhism came to Japan from Chinese monks - focuses on simplicity of life Samurai also practiced Zen Meditation is a way to clear the mind Monks and nuns would meditate for hours trying to achieve enlightenment Enlightenment was difficult to achieve Enlightenment would result in total fearlessness and serenity

3. How Was Zen Taught? Zen was taught by Masters The Masters would prepare their students for proper meditation with puzzles to solve One widely known, man created version of these puzzles is a dry rock garden

4. How do Dry Rock Gardens Help One Meditate? Dry rock gardens help one meditate because they have a calming atmosphere These gardens have of a bed of gravel with larger rocks on top The unsure meaning of these gardens leaves them open to meditation

5. What Components Are Used in a Zen Rock Garden and How? The placement of the rocks is a very important thing One of the most famous gardens is the Ryoanji garden in Kyoto, fifteen rocks are placed so that all fifteen can never be seen at once It is said that if the garden is meditated on long enough the fifteenth rock can be seen in the minds eye The purpose of the garden is a mystery which allows one to find a meaning of their own

6. Conclusion Zen Buddhism one of Japan’s main practices Meditation helps clear the mind Satori or enlightenment was the end goal Meditation and Zen Buddhism is a fascinating part of Japan’s history