Hua-t’ou
A Method of Zen Meditation1
Hua-t’ou, literally transalated ‘head word’ or ‘critical phrase’ is a practice used in Chinese Ch’an, Japanese Zen and Korean Seon. This practice is less well known than koans, which are longer, presented with a poetic introduction and an elaborate commentary. A hua-t’ou however is a stand alone, always short phrase that can be taken as a subject of meditation and introspection. The method was revived by the legendary modern Chan Master Xu Yun (1840-1959, pictured). As explained in this paper, it is particularly suited for household practitioners. The paper is taken from the Open Buddhist University.
