Watts' "The Way of Zen"

[DiegoM]

I just got started reading "The Way of Zen" this weekend.
Please bear in mind that I have read Sifu Wong's "The Complete Book of Zen" twice already.

While I understand where Watts is coming from, I find many of his platitudes quite arrogant and off-putting. To place it in its historical perspective, this was a groundbreaking book, no doubt about it. To my knowledge, this was the fist 'accessible' look into Zen, from a Western perspective.

On the other hand, I find Sifu's approach much more 'enlightened', simple, direct and effective. It was particularly interesting how, on my second reading, certain passages became much more 'alive'. I had tears in my eyes as I was reading Sifu's interepretation of the 10 ox pictures!

What's your opinion?

[Sifu Rama]

Dear Diego,

Sifu’s words about Zen rise from his “zen state of mind” allowing the transmission in a simple direct and profound way. Nevertheless Alan Watts was a master of his time and inspired millions of people in their search for truth. He attempted to open a way to the East traditions and he certainly succeeded. That is way, even considering the different level between the two masters, it is inappropriate to use a word like arrogant toward Allan Watts.

Very few people can use such a word without falling themselves in arrogance.

Kind regards,
Rama

https://www.shaolin-wahnam-center.org

[DiegoM]

I apologize to anyone that may have been offended by my inappropriate opinions.
I will be more careful in the future.