What is satori (folklore)?

Satori is a term from Japanese folklore that refers to a spiritual or mystical experience. The term is derived from the Japanese word for "understanding" or "enlightenment." In Japanese Buddhism, satori is often used to describe a sudden experience of spiritual insight or understanding.

Satori is often associated with Zen Buddhism and is considered to be one of the highest states of consciousness that a person can attain. It is believed that attainment of satori can lead to a profound sense of peace, joy, and enlightenment.

In popular culture and literature, satori has been depicted as a sudden and transformative experience that can change a person's entire worldview. Some famous examples of satori in literature include the character of Ishmael in Herman Melville's "Moby-Dick" and the protagonist of Jack Kerouac's "The Dharma Bums."

In Japanese folklore, satori is often associated with stories of monks, hermits, and spiritual seekers who undergo a profound spiritual transformation or revelation. These stories often emphasize the importance of perseverance, discipline, and spiritual practice.