Zen: The Path of Paradox, Vol 1 - Discourses Series by Osho

About this series · summary by Osho Live

"Zen: The Path of Paradox, Vol 1" offers a profound plunge into the enigmatic tradition of Zen, as presented by the enigmatic philosopher and spiritual teacher, Osho. With his signature blend of humor, wisdom, and paradoxical thinking, Osho dismantles conventional wisdom and invites seekers to embrace a reality beyond rational comprehension. In this series, the core theme revolves around the transformative power of paradox, which Osho believes is essential for transcending the dualities of mundane existence. Osho articulates Zen not merely as a doctrine but as a living, breathing pathway to awakening—one that defies logic and dances beyond words. He provocatively challenges the mind's limitations, steering adherents toward direct experience and intuitive insight rather than rote learning. By delving deep into the unpredictable and unfathomable nature of Zen, Osho encourages practitioners to embrace uncertainty as a catalyst for spiritual growth. Through evocative storytelling, parables, and Socratic dialogue, "Zen: The Path of Paradox, Vol 1" invites seekers to confront their own mental constructs and discover the spontaneity and playfulness inherent in true understanding. This series is not merely a guide but a visceral invitation to explore the vast potential of human consciousness, encouraging a leap into the mystical unknown where clarity and chaos coexist in divine harmony.

Find a talk Show summaries

1
Join the Farthest Star 11 June 1977
God is not beyond but here: drop theology and seeking, relax into unfocussed silence — you cannot possess the divine, yet it cannot be lost, always.
2
Ignorance is Ultimate 12 June 1977
Ignorance is ultimate: wisdom transcends knowledge and foolishness into no-mind; live each moment, let death be rest, and let sexual boredom open the way to God.
3
Devise No Word 13 June 1977
Language births illusion; drop words to regain childlike mirror-like awareness, MO CHAO serene-reflection reveals being not knowledge, echoing Eden.
4
Learn from the Peacocks 14 June 1977
Poetry is revolution: abandon political fights and become poets/Buddhas—drop out, live in wonder and acceptance, learn from peacocks and the heart.
5
Carnival 15 June 1977
Existence is a carnival; the ego isolates and freezes us. Drop labels and roles — like Kitagaki erasing 'Governor of Kyoto' — surrender to no-self and awake.
6
A Concession to the Gods 16 June 1977
Truth cannot be proved or contained in words; the awakened hesitate. Let go, touch and go. Speak only to rouse those on the verge, not to convince the blind.
7
The Pulse of the Universe 17 June 1977
Meditation is inner harmony: cease inner conflict to 'just stand' at the hill's centre (man on the hill), then fall into the universe's pulse.
8
Sannyas: A Decision from the Guts 18 June 1977
Sannyas must arise from the guts, not the rational mind; fear and inner 'guides' rationalize avoidance—true commitment risks death of the old self and rebirth.
9
Symbols of the Tiredness of Man 19 June 1977
Zen's final step: drop the mind, face the abyss and jump into nothingness — a sudden koan-shock (the master's kick) that dissolves ego and reveals being
10
Philosophical Bastards 20 June 1977
Drop East/West and all divisions; unity exists within each person — not synthesis but existential realization through meditation and inner transformation.

Talk summaries are written by Osho Live to help you find your way; they are not Osho's words.