What Is Zero Activity?

Imagine trying to start a fire with wet logs. No matter how many matches you strike, nothing catches—no flame, no warmth, just frustration. But what if Zen worked the same way? What if, no matter how much effort you put in… nothing?

Last time, we explored Zen as an activity—something that moves, shifts, arises, and disappears. But here’s the question: where does activity come from? According to Zen master Joshu Sasaki, it all begins with Zero—a state from which all activity emerges and to which it inevitably returns.

Zero isn’t just an abstract concept; it’s the underlying rhythm of existence. A moment of stillness before the inhale, a quiet pond before the ripple, silence before speech. Every action follows this cycle: arising, opposing forces at play, then returning to stillness. And understanding this cycle gives us a remarkable power—the ability to predict, sustain, or end any activity, including Zen itself.

So what are the conditions that allow Zen to manifest? And if Zero determines what can begin, can it also reveal the nature of what unfolds? Let’s explore the foundation of all activity—Zero Activity.