This text accesses the powerful teaching of the original Zen Masters of China and Japan. The original master and student dialogues are presented, bringing the reader in touch with the spirit of the occasion. The inspiration drawn and the following commentaries by the authors place the teachings into context for our present age. Zen is enormously popular in the West today, and new Buddhist groups are sprouting up week by week. This book gives the opportunity to bring to life the best of Zen in a practical and accessible way. It aims to accomodate the complete beginner, those who wish to penetrate further into the subtleties and wisdom of Zen and encourage deeper insights for the committed student.