Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
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Self-conceit and arrogance are the result of evil influences from outside oneself. Such influences must be suppressed; only then can healthy trends be encouraged.
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In Yongzhou there were many good swimmers. One day, the river swelled suddenly. Braving the danger, about half a dozen people started across in a small boat.
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Someone asked a Zen master: “What is your approach to Zen practice?”
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Zen Master Longshan (also known as Hidden Mountain Monk) was a renowned Chan Buddhist monk of the Tang Dynasty. After receiving Dharma transmission from Chan Master Mazu Daoyi, he chose to retreat deep into mountains for spiritual practice, remaining secluded from society throughout his life. Dwelling in austere simplicity at Long Mountain (Dragon Mount,…
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Chan Master Hakuin Ekaku (1686–1769 CE) was one of the most influential figures in Japanese Rinzai Zen Buddhism.
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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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Su Dongpo, the famed poet, shared a close yet playful rivalry with the Buddhist monk Foyin, often trading barbs—though Su usually lost.
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The Monkey King is given the name Sun Wukong (孙悟空 or 孫悟空 in Chinese) by his first master, Subhuti. But why the surname Sun?