Koans are an essential aspect of Shodo Harada Roshi's Zen practice. They are a key tool used to help students deepen their understanding and experience of Zen teachings. Koans are short, paradoxical stories or phrases that are designed to challenge the mind and provoke a breakthrough in understanding.

In Shodo Harada Roshi's Zen practice, koans are used as a means of breaking through the limitations of the rational mind and accessing a deeper level of awareness. The use of koans is a unique feature of Zen Buddhism, and it is believed that they were first introduced by the Chinese Zen master, Bodhidharma.

One of the main purposes of koans is to help students transcend dualistic thinking and experience the world in a non-dualistic way. This is because koans often present seemingly contradictory statements or scenarios that cannot be solved through logical reasoning. Instead, students are encouraged to approach koans with an open mind and let go of preconceived ideas in order to gain a deeper understanding.

Shodo Harada Roshi's approach to working with koans is known as the "Zen koan system." This system involves a series of steps that students must go through in order to fully understand and embody a koan. The first step is to read and contemplate the koan, allowing it to sink in and provoke a response from the mind.

The next step is to engage in a dialogue with the teacher, known as dokusan, where the student presents their understanding of the koan. The teacher then responds with a question or comment that challenges the student's understanding and encourages them to delve deeper.

The final step is to experience a breakthrough, known as kensho, where the student gains a direct understanding of the koan beyond words and concepts. This experience is often described as a moment of enlightenment or awakening.

Through this process, koans serve as a means of self-inquiry and self-discovery. They push students to let go of their conceptual understanding and directly experience the truth for themselves. This aligns with Shodo Harada Roshi's emphasis on the importance of personal experience over intellectual understanding.

In conclusion, koans are a fundamental aspect of Shodo Harada Roshi's Zen practice. They serve as a powerful tool for breaking through dualistic thinking and accessing a deeper level of awareness. Through the process of working with koans, students are able to gain a direct understanding of Zen teachings and ultimately, experience awakening.