Zen philosophy of spiritual development: Insights about human development and spiritual diversity for social work education

This article explores Zen Buddhist philosophy of spiritual development by examining one of the most common representations within the Zen Buddhist religious tradition, the Ten Ox Herding Pictures, which illustrate both religiously and culturally specific ideas and cross-culturally common themes. Interpretations from the standpoints of Zen philosophy, Jungian and transpersonal theories, and dialogue with Christian theology show their relevance to teaching about human development, Zen oriented social practice, and Buddhist derived clinical practices such as mindfulness. Some educational activities are suggested.