Zen Buddhism: a beginner's guide to the school of Soto Zen At the age of twenty four I discovered Soto Zen. I was studying Buddhism in college and wanted to try some of the practical advice I learned through my research. I was stunned at how useful zazen meditation could be, and that after hundreds of years there was still much that could be applied to my life from the historical texts of Soto Zen. As my interest rose, so did my desire to learn more about the historical context of Buddhism. Why were there so many sects? What separated the branches of Buddhism, and how does The Buddha actually relate to the many different teachings in Buddhism? This book serves to answer these very fundamental questions. Whether you are interested in practicing Soto Buddhism, or merely have an interest in the history of Japan, this book will provide unique insight into the formation of the ideas behind Soto Zen. I will walk you through the early history of ideas that led to its creation. I will explain the connections between The Buddha, his disciples, and the many centuries it took to cement Soto Zen in Japan. You will have an understanding of how Soto Zen relates to present day Japan, and why it has gained so much popularity in the West. In addition, I will walk you through the early stages of zazen meditation, with instructions designed specifically for beginners. Lastly, you will learn about the Soto Zen monasteries, the activities that go on there, and the different categories that distinguish their services. The audience of this book is anyone that has an interest in Soto Zen. I will contextualize this branch of Buddhism for you in a way that is easy to understand. Don't get lost in the confusing world of Buddhist doctrine, tradition, and key figures. Let me explain the history in a concise and clear way, through a western perspective that will finally bring clarity to Soto Zen. Here Is A Preview Of What You'll Learn... The concise history of Soto Zen, from its origins to its present day role in the world. A detailed history of The Buddha, his role on the region, and how his life led to the foundation Soto Zen. A guide to meditation in the style of Soto Zen. An explanation of Soto Zen written from the western perspective that takes into account the historical significance of the rise of Buddhism in Japan. A guide to everything you need to know about Soto Zen, whether you are interested in practicing or are simply looking for information on the topic. And Much More!!