The name "Obaku" holds great significance in the philosophy and practice of Obaku Zen. It is a combination of two characters, "o" meaning "king" and "baku" meaning "staff". This name was given to the sect by its founder, Chinese Zen master Ingen, who believed that the teachings of Obaku Zen were the ultimate authority, like a king's staff.

The name "Obaku" also has a deeper meaning, representing the blending of two major schools of Buddhism - Zen and Pure Land. Zen, also known as Chan in Chinese, emphasizes the practice of meditation and direct experience of enlightenment. On the other hand, Pure Land focuses on devotion and faith in the Buddha Amitabha and his Pure Land, where one can attain enlightenment after death.

The combination of these two schools in Obaku Zen reflects the belief that both meditation and devotion are necessary for spiritual growth. This is in contrast to other Zen schools that may focus solely on meditation or other practices.

Furthermore, the name "Obaku" also symbolizes the integration of Chinese and Japanese cultures. Obaku Zen was brought to Japan by Ingen, who was invited by the Tokugawa shogunate to spread his teachings. As a result, Obaku Zen incorporates elements from both Chinese and Japanese cultures, making it a unique and diverse form of Zen.

In addition, the name "Obaku" also holds a practical significance. It was chosen to distinguish the sect from other Zen schools at the time, such as Rinzai and Soto. This helped to establish Obaku Zen as a distinct and independent school of Zen.

Overall, the significance of the name "Obaku" in Obaku Zen is multifaceted. It represents the authority and integration of two major Buddhist schools, the fusion of Chinese and Japanese cultures, and the distinctiveness of Obaku Zen within the larger Zen tradition. It serves as a reminder of the rich history and unique teachings of this school, and continues to inspire practitioners on their spiritual journey.