The role of meditation, or zazen, is central to the practice of Soto Zen. Founded by Eihei Dogen in the 13th century, Soto Zen emphasizes the importance of sitting meditation as a means of attaining enlightenment and understanding the true nature of reality.

In Soto Zen, meditation is not seen as a means to an end, but rather as an end in itself. This means that the goal of meditation is not to achieve a specific state or experience, but rather to simply sit and be fully present in the moment. This is in line with Dogen's teaching of "just sitting," in which one sits without any particular goal or intention, but rather with a sense of openness and awareness.

In Soto Zen, zazen is practiced in a specific posture, known as the lotus position, which involves sitting cross-legged with the hands resting on the lap. The eyes are kept open, with a soft gaze directed towards the ground. This posture is believed to help maintain a balance between alertness and relaxation.

During meditation, practitioners focus on their breath and allow their thoughts to come and go without getting caught up in them. This practice of non-attachment to thoughts and emotions is a key aspect of Soto Zen, as it allows one to cultivate a sense of inner peace and clarity.

In addition to sitting meditation, Soto Zen also emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in everyday activities. This means being fully present and aware in all actions, whether it be walking, eating, or working. This practice of mindfulness helps to extend the benefits of meditation beyond the cushion and into daily life.

Through regular practice of zazen, Soto Zen practitioners aim to cultivate a deep understanding of the true nature of reality and to experience a sense of interconnectedness with all beings. This understanding is known as "kensho," and is seen as a step towards ultimate enlightenment.

In conclusion, meditation plays a crucial role in Soto Zen, serving as the primary means of attaining enlightenment and deepening one's understanding of reality. Through the practice of zazen, practitioners aim to cultivate mindfulness, inner peace, and a sense of interconnectedness with all beings.