-
Insects in the rice
•
AnaAt a Chan monastery, the monastic chef was a highly respected role. Master Shishuang, who had trained in several temples before, served as grain keeper under Master Weishan.
-
A Buddha’s Unheeded Rescue
•
AnaA man journeyed through mountains and rivers, enduring great hardship. While crossing a steep cliff, he slipped and fell into a deep ravine. As he plummeted, he desperately grabbed an old branch growing from the cliffside — saving himself but left dangling mid-air.
-
When retreating propels you forward: Wu De’s Dragon-Tiger Koan
•
AnaMonks at Longhu Temple (Dragon-Tiger Temple) were painting a “Dragon-Tiger Battle” mural on the front wall. They struggled to capture dynamic tension: the dragon coiled in clouds, ready to descend; the tiger crouched on a mountain, poised to pounce.
-
Realizing the Dao in the present moment
•
AnaChan Master Huangbo Xiyun was a highly influential Chinese Chan (Zen) master during the Tang Dynasty, known for his profound teachings and contributions to the development of Chan Buddhism.
-
The Chan homemaker and the flowers
•
AnaChan Master Wu De refers to Master Fenyang Shanzhao, a renowned Chan master of the Song Dynasty and a monk of the Linji school. In Chan practice, Shanzhao pioneered innovative forms such as Dai-Bie (substitute phrases and critical amendments—revising interpretations of koan dialogues) and Song-Gu (eulogizing antiquity—praising ancient koans through poetic verses). He compiled…
-
Zen Masters speaking through the Staff
•
AnaChan Master Linji Yixuan was one of the most influential figures in the history of Chan (Zen) Buddhism, particularly known for founding the Linji school. His teachings emphasized direct experience over scriptural study, advocating for a practice that cuts through delusion to achieve sudden enlightenment. Linji is famous for his use of shocking techniques,…