What does "Zen" emphasize in Zen Buddhism?

Zen Buddhism places a significant emphasis on meditation and mindfulness as central practices for attaining enlightenment. This tradition encourages practitioners to engage in zazen, or seated meditation, as a means to experience direct insight into their true nature and the nature of reality. The practice is characterized by a focus on returning to the present moment, cultivating awareness, and quieting the mind.

In Zen, meditation is not merely a technique but a way of life that permeates everyday activities, encouraging a mindful approach to all experiences and actions. This focus helps individuals to develop a deeper understanding and personal experience of their spirituality, rather than relying solely on scriptures or teachings from religious texts. As such, meditation and mindfulness are invaluable tools in Zen Buddhism for fostering clarity, peace, and a direct connection to the essence of existence.

The other choices highlight practices that are less central to Zen's core philosophy. While some Zen practitioners may engage with texts or rituals, they do not define Zen itself, which primarily prioritizes the experiential practice of meditation.