Origin and Meaning of Zen

Meditation; calmness

Origin: Japanese - The name Zen derives from the Japanese word 'zen', which means a state of calmness or meditation, and is rooted in the Chinese word 'chán'.

• Zen is closely associated with the Zen school of Buddhism, which emphasizes meditation as a means of achieving enlightenment.
• The name Zen is used in various cultures, and while it is particularly popular in Japan, it can also be found in Western countries where it has gained popularity as a unique and trendy name.
• Notable figures bearing the name include Zen Master Dogen, a 13th-century Japanese monk credited with bringing Zen Buddhism to Japan.
• In recent years, Zen has seen a rise in popularity, particularly in Western countries, as parents seek short, meaningful names with a modern edge.
• Variations and related names include Zeno (Greek origin) and Zehn (German origin), which have similar phonetic qualities.