Puhua, a Tang Dynasty Chan master (847–859 CE), was renowned for his eccentric ways. A disciple of Panshan Baoji, he roamed streets by day and slept in graveyards by night, ringing a hand bell while singing verses or wailing. Later, he aided Master Linji in propagating the Linji school.
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One gains, one loses
Master Nanquan Puyuan (748–834 CE) was a revered Chinese Chan (Zen) master of the Tang Dynasty, known for his profound teachings and role in shaping the Linji (Rinzai) school of Chan Buddhism. He was a student of Baizhang Huaihai, another great Chan master, and is celebrated for his direct and often paradoxical methods to guide students toward enlightenment.
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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 100 dialogues of ancestral enlightenment encounters, expounding each with a gatha verse. This marked Chan’s transition from ‘not establishing words’ to ‘literary Chan’, pioneering a new path for Chan’s evolution in the Song era.”
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Zen Masters speaking through the Staff
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, such as shouting and striking, to jolt students into awakening.
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