Seon, also known as Zen, is a Korean meditative tradition that originated from the teachings of Buddhism. It is a form of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasizes the practice of meditation as a means to enlightenment. While Seon shares many similarities with other forms of Buddhism, it also has distinct differences that set it apart.

One of the main differences between Seon and other forms of Buddhism is its emphasis on the practice of meditation. In Seon, meditation is not just a means to achieve enlightenment, but it is also seen as the essence of the practice itself. This is in contrast to other forms of Buddhism where meditation is seen as one of the many methods to achieve enlightenment. The goal of Seon is to directly experience the true nature of reality through meditation, rather than relying on scriptures or teachings.

Another aspect that sets Seon apart is its focus on the concept of "sudden enlightenment." This refers to the idea that enlightenment can be achieved in a single moment of insight, rather than through gradual practice and accumulation of merit. This belief is rooted in the idea of "original enlightenment," which suggests that all beings are inherently enlightened, but are unaware of it. Through the practice of meditation, one can awaken to this inherent enlightenment.

In Seon, there is also a strong emphasis on the relationship between the teacher and the student. The role of the teacher, or "Zen master," is crucial in guiding the student towards enlightenment. The teacher-student relationship is seen as a vital part of the practice, and the teacher's guidance is considered essential in helping the student overcome their own obstacles and delusions.

Additionally, Seon places a strong emphasis on the use of paradoxical statements, known as "koans," in its teachings. These are seemingly illogical or nonsensical statements that are used to challenge the student's conventional way of thinking and push them towards a state of enlightenment. This use of paradox and contradiction is a unique aspect of Seon that is not found in other forms of Buddhism.

In summary, Seon differs from other forms of Buddhism in its emphasis on meditation as the essence of the practice, its belief in sudden enlightenment, the importance of the teacher-student relationship, and the use of paradoxical statements in teachings. These unique aspects of Seon make it a distinct and influential tradition within the larger Buddhist tradition.