Panel: TRANSFORMATIONS OF BUDDHISMS IN EUROPE



110.8 - "I FOLLOW THE PATH OF THE BUDDHA, AND I BELIEVE IN THE CHRISTIAN GOD": TRANSFORMATIONS OF ZEN BUDDHISM IN ITALY

AUTHORS:
Rivadossi S. (Ca' Foscari University of Venice ~ Venice ~ Italy)
Text:
This preliminary study explores Zen Buddhism in its relationship with Catholicism in Italy, aiming to illustrate how the lived religious practices and experiences of certain clergy members are gradually transforming both traditions by integrating elements from each. The transformations of Zen Buddhism are explored from two perspectives: that of Italian Zen Buddhist nuns who identify as Catholic and practice Christianity, and that of Catholic priests who integrate zazen meditation into their religious routines.