Buddha-nature in Psychotherapy

Abstract

One of the central tenets of Zen practice is the doctrine of Buddha-nature. Buddha-nature is believed to be immanent in all beings. This is considered an essential teaching of the central tenet in the Jogye Order that represents Korean Buddhism. Every person has a Buddha-nature although he or she may not be aware of this due to ignorance. Zen emphasizes that only those who are awakened to their true nature can be free from human suffering. Therefore the ultimate goal of Zen practice is to see one’s own Buddha-nature and recover Buddhahood. From the psycho-healing point of view, complete healing can be achieved by awakening to one's own Buddha-nature. This study will explore what Buddha-nature really is from the point of view of Zen practice. This study will also discuss why the doctrine of Buddha-nature is important in psychotherapy and how it can contribute to psychotherapeutic practice.