Most systems past and present, are built around modeling behavior apon the iconic representation of an idealized figure: a Chuang Tzu, or the Christ, or whomever. These behavior modification regimens produce a psychological topiary which can be a very satisfactory simulacrum of the iconic goal and produce a fine figure of a human being.
What sets Zen apart is that Zen is not about behavior modification. Zen uses behavior to build the key which will unlock the door and awaken Pristine Awareness from its intoxication with consciousness.
Zen is about a metamorphosis: a metanoia. 2,500 years ago the pre-Zen Taoist Chuang Tzu spoke of this as "those who have left their humanity behind"
As a butterfly leaves behind the chrysalis.
