This massive image by Japan's great Zen master Hakuin epitomizes Zen art-unadorned, direct, substantial, and bristling with spiritual force. Free of embellishments and elaboration, the painting presents Buddhism in its most concentrated form. Zen is one manifestation of Buddhism: the primary aim of Zen is personal enlightenment through meditation rather than study of sutras and practice of rituals. The foremost symbol of Zen is its first patriarch, Daruma (Sanskrit: Bodhidharma), the legendary meditation master who traveled from India to China in the sixth century. His teachings were radically different from the elaborate, ritualistic schools of Buddhism that were then prevalent.

Daruma's teaching is often summarized as "Enlightenment is not found in books or in the performance of empty rites." In Zenga (Japanese: Zen-picture), the artist is not painting Daruma as a historical figure for veneration but as a symbol of penetrating insight, ceaseless diligence, and the rejection of all externals. These were qualities to be strived for by a monk who hoped to succeed in achieving enlightenment. To bring the image of Daruma alive with brush and ink, the artist must, through meditation, become Daruma. A Daruma painting is therefore a spiritual self-portrait based on the individual experience of each Zen master.

The calligraphy on this painting reads, "[Zen is] a direct pointing to the human mind. See into your nature and become Buddha!"