What's the difference between the religion Buddhism and Zen Buddhism?

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Chrysanthe

I think both are sort of similar in a way that Buddhism believes in finding the truth in life while Zen Buddhism focuses on changing the way how a person thinks and it requires much concentration and imagination. am I right? this is what is written on our history book.

Will you please tell me what's the difference?

Answer
Buddhism can be divided into two distinct strands, Theravada- the elder's way, and Mahayana- the higher way. Mahayana has many branches Zen is one of them.

I here assume you want the differences between Zen and Theravada.

Zen, I have read, believes in impermanence of many things, including Nirvana. Nibbhana, the concept in Threvada, is not bound by impermanence.

Zen also believes in sudden enlightenment, Threvada is in the belief that enlightenment is gradual process.

Koan is exclusive to Zen.

What would be some good resources for my Zen Buddhism report?

The Evil K

I have to do a paper/report on Zen Buddhism for my english class and I wanted to go outside the box of books and internet. I thought about interviewing a legitimate buddhist but I can't find any buddhist worship centers in my city!
Ideas? Thoughts? Anything?
Everything is helpful!
Thank you!

Answer
It would be very easy using the internet, maybe you can skype a Buddha lol. But teachers don't really care about resources unless you either bring the buddha into your classroom or take a video interview with the buddha. You will get extra credit if you buy some worship items of off ebay or something.

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