Zen Buddhist Philosophy in Suan Mokkhabalarama

Abstract

Zen Buddhist philosophy is a Mahayana sect which is propagated in China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and some counties in the West. Thai people have known Zen because its doctrine’s translation by Buddhadasa Bhikkhu. He has studied Zen then applied to develop in Thai’s society through establishing Suan Mokkhabalarama. This is a religious site which is to study and practice the Dharma by staying nearest to nature. The Buddhadasa Bhikkhu’s way has reflected the highlight of Zen Buddhist philosophy, i.e. Spiritual Theater, Curved Stone Court, Church (Uposatha), Dharma Ships, Avalokiteshavara (Guanyin) Bodhisattva’s Statue, and Nalike Pond. All these are religious sites which are affected by Koan and Zen Garden. For the Buddha’s teaching, Suan Mokkhabalarama is mystified by the Koan which is properly mixed Theravada and Zen Buddhist philosophy which is the principle of working with empty mind.