Obaku Zen is a unique form of Zen Buddhism that originated in China and was later brought to Japan in the 17th century. It is a blend of Zen with Pure Land elements, creating a harmonious balance between meditation and devotion. The main principles of Obaku Zen are rooted in the teachings of Zen Buddhism and Pure Land Buddhism, with a focus on mindfulness, compassion, and the pursuit of enlightenment.

The first principle of Obaku Zen is mindfulness, also known as "sati" in Sanskrit. This refers to the practice of being fully present in the moment, without any distractions or judgments. In Obaku Zen, practitioners are encouraged to be mindful in all aspects of their daily lives, from eating and drinking to working and interacting with others. By cultivating mindfulness, one can develop a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around them.

The second principle of Obaku Zen is compassion, or "karuna" in Sanskrit. This is the practice of showing kindness, empathy, and understanding towards all beings. In Obaku Zen, compassion is seen as an essential aspect of spiritual growth and is cultivated through meditation and self-reflection. By developing compassion, practitioners can overcome their ego and connect with others on a deeper level.

The third principle of Obaku Zen is the pursuit of enlightenment, also known as "bodhi" in Sanskrit. This refers to the ultimate goal of Zen Buddhism, which is to attain a state of complete awakening and liberation from suffering. In Obaku Zen, enlightenment is not seen as something to be achieved in the distant future, but rather as a continuous process of self-discovery and growth.

In addition to these three main principles, Obaku Zen also places a strong emphasis on the importance of a qualified teacher, or "roshi." The roshi is a highly trained and experienced Zen master who guides and supports practitioners on their spiritual journey. They serve as a role model and provide guidance, instruction, and support to help practitioners deepen their understanding and practice of Obaku Zen.

Overall, the main principles of Obaku Zen revolve around mindfulness, compassion, and the pursuit of enlightenment, with the guidance of a qualified teacher. By incorporating elements from both Zen and Pure Land Buddhism, Obaku Zen offers a unique and balanced approach to spiritual growth and self-discovery. It is a path that encourages practitioners to be fully present, compassionate, and dedicated to their pursuit of awakening.