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One puff of wind vs. Eight
Chan Master Foyin (1032–1098 CE) was a renowned Chinese Chan (Zen) master of the Song Dynasty, known for his wisdom, humor, and deep spiritual insight.
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Insects in the rice
At 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.
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A Buddha’s Unheeded Rescue
A 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.
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When retreating propels you forward: Wu De’s Dragon-Tiger Koan
Monks 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.
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Realizing the Dao in the present moment
Chan 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.
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The Chan homemaker and the flowers
Chan 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…