Built Quote by Huston Smith
“The word translated, koan, it means a problem. But it's a very special problem. And to strip it down to the way it works, you are given a problem which has no rational solution. There is a contradiction built into it. One standard - one is this is the sound of two hands clapping. What is the sound of one hand clapping? And so on. All right, so the first thing is that it brings your rational mind to an impasse.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Wisdom of Zen, Huston Smith, 1995
Koans are paradoxical riddles that halt logical reasoning, forcing the mind to transcend ordinary thought.
In simple terms: Koans stop rational thinking, prompting deeper insight.
Key Takeaway
Embrace paradox to expand consciousness.
Themes
philosophy
mindfulness
spirituality
Mood
contemplative
curious
Type
reflective
inspirational
When to use this quote
- meditation practice
- philosophical study
- creative problem solving
Key Concepts
Zen
paradox
cognitive impasse
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you sit with uncertainty?
- What insight emerges when logic stops?
A Different Perspective
Koans may frustrate those seeking quick answers.
