How does Zen teaching describe the possibility of spiritual awakening for ordinary people?

Zen teaching asserts that spiritual awakening is a possibility for anyone, as all people possess the buddha-nature, which is considered inherently pure. This potential is not reserved for a select few but is a fundamental aspect of human existence.12

The path to realizing this nature involves discovering one's own mind, where all Buddhist doctrines are immanent. While Zen emphasizes that awakening can be achieved by anyone, it typically requires instruction in the proper forms of spiritual cultivation by a master. This process often involves:12

• Direct Insight: Zen focuses on "pointing directly to the human mind" to see one's true nature, rather than relying solely on the study of scriptures or words.3
• Spiritual Cultivation: While some traditions emphasize sudden awakening, others utilize methods such as zazen (sitting meditation) or the study of koan (public cases) to facilitate this breakthrough.43
• Freedom from Attachment: Awakening is attained when one is freed from deliberate thought and attachment to things, allowing one to see their own nature clearly.1

Ultimately, Zen maintains that each generation can and must attain the same spiritual awakening as the historical Buddha.3