Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
Master Linji Yixuan was a great Chan (Zen) master of the Tang Dynasty and founder of the Linji school,. He is celebrated for his dynamic and direct teaching style, often using shouts, strikes, and paradoxical statements to awaken students from deluded thinking. His core teaching emphasized that everyone possesses Buddha-nature and can realize enlightenment…
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.
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…
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…
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,…