Zen Buddhism in America

Abstract The focus of scholarship on Zen in America has been white communities affiliated with Japanese teachers who practice meditation to the expense of other ritual practices. This has led to a narrow vision of what constitutes “Zen in America.” The current chapter aims to give an overview of existing lines of scholarship, as well as indicate what future directions are promising. In doing so, it focuses on literary production. After a brief literature review, the chapter sketches the function of Zen literature in China and Japan. Then, it shows how Zen Buddhist apologists such as Daisetz Suzuki translated these ideas for an American audience. Then, it discusses two prominent Zen teachers in America, and the effects of the sex scandals on American Zen practice and scholarship. After noting gendered and racialized perspectives, the chapter ends with a reflection on the global influence of American Zen.