Buddhism and Parasites

Just because Zen readily adopts Buddhism doesn’t mean Zen is Buddhist.
Zen, which accepts everything, accepts Buddhism… all the more readily since the latter has so easily molded itself to it and doesn’t cause it any major inconvenience.

It is a discreet parasite, respectful of its host.

However, the time will come when Zen, whatever name we give it collectively and whatever recognition we give it individually, will rid itself of it, either with a gentle nudge if it becomes invasive or oppressive,
or because the Buddhist parasite, lacking vigilance, has become too heavy and falls away on its own.

Or perhaps it will cease to be something we call « Buddhism » and disintegrate of its own accord.

©FJ Nov 2025
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