what is satori

Satori is a Japanese Buddhist term that refers to a deep experience of kenshō, which is "seeing into ones true nature". It is often translated as "enlightenment," but it represents a transcendence of the distinction between one that knows and knowledge, and it is an experience that cannot be expressed in words. Satori is considered a central goal of Zen practice, as it represents the ultimate realization of ones true nature and the nature of reality. It is a profound realization of our true nature and the nature of reality that transcends intellectual understanding. Satori is analogous to the conversion experience or spiritual rebirth of other religious traditions in that it constitutes a complete reordering of the individual in relation to the universe. Satori usually is achieved only after a period of concentrated preparation and may occur spontaneously as a result of a chance incident. It is a moment of total presence, of no mind and no thought but a flash of insight and awakening of the light of our own consciousness.