In this thesis , Zen is examined as a philosophy and practice of creativity which is understood as a process that unfolds as a free flow of energy and power actualized through an appropriate spontaneity. This unfolding is a way of life which is viewed as essential for the whole person' It is the primordial flowering of being. Zen has made a remarkable contribution to the arts. This is made possible because it is not dependent on words and letters; consequently, it can be applied to any art form. It is an t artless art I which goes far beyond the learning of technique for one must allow the ego to drop away' The no-mind which results is on its creative genius. It is the source of creativity through which the Zen artist as the martial artist, the flower arranger, the haiku poet, or whatever masters the art. The philosophy of Zen deliberately leads the Zen student to the brink of enlightenment; and, at the same time, it vanishes leaving no erases. The practices of Zen, some of which include sitting and walking meditation' chanting and lcoan study, prepare the student to completely leap beyond the confines of conditioning and ego, It is then that one discovers on its identity as a fully creative Person.
