Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
The nun Xuanji of Wenzhou, ordained during the Tang Jingyun era (710–711 CE), meditated in stone caves on Great Sun Mountain. One day she reflected: “Dharma-nature is inherently pure — why cling to stillness over noise?” She journeyed to meet Master Xuefeng.
A Chan master of the Tang Dynasty, disciple of National Teacher Hui’an, was unknown in name and origin. His enigmatic conduct defied understanding as he dwelt in seclusion on Songshan Mountain.
Master Sengcan was the third patriarch of Chinese Chan Buddhism and a direct disciple of Master Huike, who received the Dharma from Bodhidharma. He is best known for composing the seminal work “Xinxin Ming” (“Verses on the Faith-Mind”), which emphasizes the realization of non-duality and the oneness of mind and Buddha-nature.
Master Sengguang Huike (487–593 CE), often simply known as Huike, was the second patriarch of Chinese Chan (Zen) Buddhism and a direct disciple of Bodhidharma, the founder of the school. His life and teachings played a pivotal role in establishing Chan Buddhism in China.
Chan Master Nanquan Puyuan (748–834 CE) was a respected disciple of Mazu Daoyi, one of the great figures in Tang Dynasty Chan Buddhism.
Chan Master Dazhu Huihai, a prominent Tang Dynasty monk, was ordained under Master Daozhi at Dayun Temple in Yuezhou. After reading Huihai’s writing (The Essential Gateway to Truth by Sudden Awakening), Master Mazu Daoyi praised him as “Great Pearl” — a Buddhist symbol of awakening and wisdom — hence later generations also referred to…
Chan 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,…
Chan Master Danxia Tianran is a renowned monk in Tang dynasty. He was the founder of Danxia Temple on Mount Danxia in Nanzhao County, Henan.
Danxia Tianran was a famous Chan master in Tang Dynasty. Once he was traveling with a fellow practitioner. They encountered a muddy path after heavy rain, and the river had risen, making it difficult to pass.