159 Another Word for Koan? – Koan Synonyms & Antonyms

Want to say koan differently? Here are other words for koan and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.


Meaning of koan

A koan is a paradoxical or seemingly irrational statement or question used in Zen Buddhism to help practitioners abandon dependence on reason and force them into a new perspective.

Etymology of koan

The word "koan" comes from the Chinese term "gong'an", which refers to a public case or a legal precedent.
In Zen Buddhism, the term "koan" was adopted to describe the use of paradoxical statements or questions as a means of spiritual training and enlightenment.

Synonyms

paradox riddle puzzle enigma mystery brain teaser conundrum dilemma quandary poser problem question challenge test trial maze labyrinth knot tangle snare trap pitfall obstacle hurdle barrier block impasse stalemate deadlock logjam puzzle piece teaser brain twister mind bender thought provoker intellectual exercise mental challenge philosophical question metaphysical puzzle spiritual conundrum existential query theological dilemma

Definitions

  • A koan is a statement or question in the form of a dialogue or a story that is used in Zen Buddhism to help practitioners attain a deeper understanding of the nature of reality.
  • Koans often involve paradoxes or apparent contradictions that challenge the practitioner's conventional way of thinking and provoke a new perspective or insight.

Usage Examples

  • The Zen master presented his student with a classic koan: "Two hands clap and there is a sound, what is the sound of one hand clapping?"
  • The teacher used a koan to challenge the student's conventional thinking and force him to consider a new perspective on the nature of reality.
  • The koan "What was your face before your parents were born?" is often used to help practitioners abandon their attachment to conceptual thinking and attain a deeper understanding of their true nature.

Antonyms

clarity clearness transparency obviousness simplicity ease straightforwardness directness openness honesty sincerity truthfulness fact reality actuality actualness actuality actualization realization manifestation expression statement declaration affirmation assertion confirmation verification validation certification actualization

Related Adjectives

paradoxical irrational illogical unreasonable unconventional unorthodox unconventional nonconformist innovative creative imaginative insightful enlightening awakening transformative evolutionary developmental growth-oriented spiritual metaphysical philosophical theological intellectual mental cognitive mindful contemplative reflective introspective

Related Nouns

wisdom enlightenment insight understanding awareness perception cognition knowledge consciousness mindfulness meditation contemplation reflection introspection self-awareness spiritual growth personal growth development transformation evolution metamorphosis change transition shift awakening awareness realization epiphany

Related Verbs

meditate contemplate reflect introspect ponder consider think reason analyze examine investigate explore search seek question inquire probe test challenge provoke stimulate inspire motivate guide teach instruct train practice cultivate develop
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