Kenshō Series: Hetherington

Kenshō — a Japanese Zen Buddhist term meaning “seeing nature” or “true essence” — refers to an initial, sudden glimpse or insight into one’s true nature, ultimate reality or the absolute. The experience is a temporary psychological state, a moment of awakening that signifies a fundamental shift in perception and understanding of oneself in the world. Kenshō is said to be not full enlightenment, but rather a critical first awakening that serves as a starting point for further training and integration of this understanding into daily life. “Kenshō” is often used interchangeably with “satori.”