Category: Uncategorized

Case 1: The Emperor Asks Bodhidharma Title in Sullivan (2021): The Emperor Asks Bodhidharma Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): The Highest Meaning of the Holy Truths Title in Sekida (2005): Emperor Wu Asks Bodhidharma Named characters (in Pinyin): Bodhidharma (n.d.) Liang Wudi (or “Emperor Wu of Liang”) (464-549) Zhi Gong (or “Baozhi” or “Master Zhi”) (418-524)… Continue reading Case 1: The Emperor Asks Bodhidharma

Case 2: Zhaozhou’s Ultimate Path Title in Sullivan (2021): Zhaozhou’s Ultimate Path Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): The Ultimate Path is Without Difficulty Title in Sekida (2005): Jōshū’s “The Real Way is Not Difficult” Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chao Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Jōshū Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku… Continue reading Case 2: Zhaozhou’s Ultimate Path

Case 3: Great Master Ma Is Ill Title in Sullivan (2021): Great Master Ma is Ill Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Master Ma is Unwell Title in Sekida (2005): Baso’s “Sun-faced Buddha, Moon-faced Buddha” Named characters (in Pinyin): Mazu Daoyi (aka Great Master Ma) (709-788) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ma Tsu Named characters (in Japanese): Baso… Continue reading Case 3: Great Master Ma Is Ill

Case 4: Deshan Carries his Pack Title in Sullivan (2021): Deshan Carries his Pack Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Te Shan Carrying His Bundle Title in Sekida (2005): Tokusan Visits Isan Named characters (in Pinyin): Deshan Xuanjian (c. 781-865) Guishan Lingyou (771-853) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Te Shan Kuei Shan Named characters (in Japanese): Tokusan Isan Historical… Continue reading Case 4: Deshan Carries his Pack

Case 5: Xuefeng Calls out the Search Party Title in Sullivan (2021): Xuefeng Calls out the Search Party Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Hsueh Feng’s Grain of Rice Title in Sekida (2005): Seppō’s “A Grain of Rice” Named characters (in Pinyin): Xuefeng Yicun (822-908) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Hsueh Feng Named characters (in Japanese): Seppō Historical… Continue reading Case 5: Xuefeng Calls out the Search Party

Case 6: Yunmen’s “Every Day Is a Good Day” Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen’s “Every Day is a Good Day” Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men’s Every Day is a Good Day Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s “Every Day is a Good Day” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun… Continue reading Case 6: Yunmen’s “Every Day Is a Good Day”

Case 7: Huichao Inquires about the Buddha Title in Sullivan (2021): Huichao Inquires about the Buddha Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Hui Ch’ao Asks about Buddha Title in Sekida (2005):“Hōgen’s “You are Echo” Named characters (in Pinyin): Fayan Wenyi (885-958) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Hui Ch’ao Fa Yen Named characters (in Japanese): Echō Hōgen Other… Continue reading Case 7: Huichao Inquires about the Buddha

Case 8: Cuiyan’s Eyebrows Title in Sullivan (2021): Cuiyan’s Eyebrows Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ts’ui Yen’s Eyebrows Title in Sekida (2005): Suigan’s Eyebrows Named characters (in Pinyin): Cuiyan Lingcan (n.d.) Baofu Congzhan (d. 928) Changqing Huileng (854-932) Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ts’ui Yen Pao Fu Ch’ang Ch’ing Yun Men. Named characters (in Japanese):… Continue reading Case 8: Cuiyan’s Eyebrows

Case 9: The Gates of Zhaozhou Title in Sullivan (2021): The Gates of Zhaozhou Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chao Chou’s Four Gates Title in Sekida (2005): Jōshū’s Four Gates Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chao Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Jōshū Other koan collections: The True Dharma Eye, Case #46.… Continue reading Case 9: The Gates of Zhaozhou

Case 10: Four Shouts for Muzhou Title in Sullivan (2021): Four Shouts for Muzhou Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Mu Chou’s Thieving Phony Title in Sekida (2005): Bokushū’s “Empty-headed Fool” Named characters (in Pinyin): Muzhou Daoming (780-877) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Mu Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Bokushū Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku and Tenkei Denson (contained… Continue reading Case 10: Four Shouts for Muzhou

Case 11: Huangbo’s Dreg Swilling Bozos Title in Sullivan (2021): Huangbo’s Dreg Swilling Bozos Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Huang Po’s Gobblers of Dregs Title in Sekida (2005): Ōbaku’s “Partakers of Brewer’s Grain” Named characters (in Pinyin): Huangbo Xiyun (n.d.) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Huang Po Named characters (in Japanese): Ōbaku Other koan collections: The Book… Continue reading Case 11: Huangbo’s Dreg Swilling Bozos

Case 12: Dongshan’s Three Pounds of Flax Title in Sullivan (2021): Dongshan’s Three Pounds of Flax Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Tung Shan’s Three Pounds of Hemp  Title in Sekida (2005): Tōzan’s “Masagin” Named characters (in Pinyin): Dongshan Shouchu (910-990) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Tung Shan Named characters (in Japanese): Tōzan Other koan collections: The… Continue reading Case 12: Dongshan’s Three Pounds of Flax

Case 13: Baling’s Silver Bowl Title in Sullivan (2021): Baling’s Silver Bowl Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Pa Ling’s Snow in a Silver Bowl Title in Sekida (2005): Haryō’s “Snow in a Silver Bowl” Named characters (in Pinyin): Baling Haojian (n.d.) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Pa Ling Named characters (in Japanese): Haryō Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku… Continue reading Case 13: Baling’s Silver Bowl

Case 14: Yunmen’s Appropriate Statement Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen’s Appropriate Statement Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men’s Appropriate Statement Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s “Preaching Facing Oneness” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Ummon Other koan collections: The True Dharma Eye, Case #95 Historical… Continue reading Case 14: Yunmen’s Appropriate Statement

Case 15: Yunmen’s Upside Down Statement Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen’s Upside Down Statement Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men’s Upside-Down Statement Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s “No Preaching on Oneness” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Ummon Other koan collections: The True Dharma… Continue reading Case 15: Yunmen’s Upside Down Statement

Case 16: Jingqing Pecks the Egg Title in Sullivan (2021): Jingqing Pecks the Egg Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ching Ch’ing’s Man in the Weeds Title in Sekida (2005): Kyōsei’s Instruction on Pecking and Tapping Named characters (in Pinyin): Jingqing Daofu (868-937) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ching Ch’ing. Named characters (in Japanese): Kyōsei. Other koan collections:… Continue reading Case 16: Jingqing Pecks the Egg

Case 17: Sitting with Xianglin Title in Sullivan (2021): Sitting with Xianglin Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Hsiang Lin’s Meaning of the Coming from the West Title in Sekida (2005): Kyōrin’s “Sitting Long and Getting Tired” Named characters (in Pinyin): Xianglin Chengyuan (908-987) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Hsiang Lin Named characters (in Japanese): Kyōrin Historical… Continue reading Case 17: Sitting with Xianglin

Case 18: The National Teacher’s Seamless Monument Title in Sullivan (2021): The National Teacher’s Seamless Monument Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): National Teacher Chung’s Seamless Monument Title in Sekida (2005): Emperor Shukusō Asks About the Style of the Pagoda Named characters (in Pinyin): Suzong Di (aka Emperor Suzong of the Tang) (711-762) Nanyang Huizhong (aka… Continue reading Case 18: The National Teacher’s Seamless Monument

Case 19: Juzhi Raises One Finger Title in Sullivan (2021): Juzhi Raises One Finger Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chu Ti’s One-Finger Ch’an Title in Sekida (2005): Gutei’s One-Finger Zen Named characters (in Pinyin): Jinhua Juzhi (n.d.) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chu Ti Named characters (in Japanese): Gutei Other koan collections: The Gateless Barrier, Case #3… Continue reading Case 19: Juzhi Raises One Finger

Case 20: Longya Asks Around Title in Sullivan (2021): Longya Asks Around Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Lung Ya’s Meaning of the Coming from the West Title in Sekida (2005): Ryūgye Asks Suibi and Rinzai Named characters (in Pinyin): Longya Judun (835-923) Cuiwei Wuxue (n.d.) Linji Yixuan (d. 866) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Lung Ya Ts’ui Wei… Continue reading Case 20: Longya Asks Around

Case 21: The Lotus of Zhimen Title in Sullivan (2021): The Lotus of Zhimen Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chih Men’s Lotus Flower, Lotus Leaves Title in Sekida (2005): Chimon’s Lotus Flower and Lotus Leaves Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhimen Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chih Men Named characters (in Japanese): Chimon Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku… Continue reading Case 21: The Lotus of Zhimen

Case 22: Xuefeng’s Turtle-Nosed Snake Title in Sullivan (2021): Xuefeng’s Turtle-Nosed Snake Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Hsueh Feng’s Turtle-Nosed Snake Title in Sekida (2005): Seppō’s Turtle-nosed Snake Named characters (in Pinyin): Xuefeng Yicun (822-908) Changqing Huileng (854-932) Xuansha Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Hsueh Feng Ch’ang Ch’ing Hsuan Sha Yun Men. Named characters (in… Continue reading Case 22: Xuefeng’s Turtle-Nosed Snake

Case 23: Baofu and Changqing Find the Mystic Peak Title in Sullivan (2021): Baofu and Changqing Find the Mystic Peak Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Pao Fu’s Summit of the Mystic Peak Title in Sekida (2005): Hofuku Points to Myōhōchō Named characters (in Pinyin): Baofu Congzhan (d. 928) Changqing Huileng (854-932) Named characters (in Wade-Giles):… Continue reading Case 23: Baofu and Changqing Find the Mystic Peak

Case 24: Iron Grindstone Liu Walks Away Title in Sullivan (2021): The Grinder Walks Away Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Kuei Shan and Iron Grindstone Liu Title in Sekida (2005): Ryūtetsuma the Old Female Buffalo Named characters (in Pinyin): Liu Tiemo Guishan Lingyou (771-853) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Lieu (aka Iron Grinder Lieu) Kuei Shan… Continue reading Case 24: Iron Grindstone Liu Walks Away

Case 25: The Hermit of Lotus Flower Peak Answers Himself Title in Sullivan (2021): The Hermit of Lotus Flower Peak Answers Himself Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): The Hermit of Lotus Flower Peak Holds up His Staff Title in Sekida (2005): The Master of Rengehō’s Staff Named characters (in Pinyin): Lianhuafeng Anzhu (“Lotus Flower Peak… Continue reading Case 25: The Hermit of Lotus Flower Peak Answers Himself

Case 26: Baizhang’s Wonderful Affair Title in Sullivan (2021): Baizhang’s Wonderful Affair Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Pai Chang’s Sitting Alone on Ta Hsiung Mountain Title in Sekida (2005): Hyakujō Sits on the Great Sublime Peak Named characters (in Pinyin): Baizhang Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Pai Chang Named characters (in Japanese): Hyakujō Historical commentaries: Hakuin… Continue reading Case 26: Baizhang’s Wonderful Affair

Case 27: Yunmen’s Golden Wind Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen’s Golden Wind Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men’s The Body Exposed, The Golden Wind Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s “Golden Breeze” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Ummon Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku and Tenkei… Continue reading Case 27: Yunmen’s Golden Wind

Case 28: The Nirvana Master Explains it to Death Title in Sullivan (2021): The Nirvana Master Explains it to Death Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Nan Ch’uan’s Truth That’s Never Been Spoken Title in Sekida (2005): What the Holy Ones Have Not Preached Named characters (in Pinyin): Nanquan Nirvana Master of Baizhang Mountain Named characters… Continue reading Case 28: The Nirvana Master Explains it to Death

Case 29: Dasui’s World-Ending Fire Title in Sullivan (2021): Dasui’s World-Ending Fire Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ta Sui’s It Goes Along with It Title in Sekida (2005): Daizui’s “It Will Be Gone with the Other” Named characters (in Pinyin): Dasui. Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ta Sui. Named characters (in Japanese): Dazui Other koan collections:… Continue reading Case 29: Dasui’s World-Ending Fire

Case 30: Zhaozhou’s Big Radishes Title in Sullivan (2021): Zhaozhou’s Big Radishes Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chao Chou’s Big Turnips Title in Sekida (2005): Jōshū’s “A Big Radish” Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chao Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Jōshū. Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku and Tenkei Denson (contained in Secrets of… Continue reading Case 30: Zhaozhou’s Big Radishes

Case 31: Magu Shakes his Staff Title in Sullivan (2021): Magu Shakes his Staff Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ma Ku Carrying his Ring-Staff Title in Sekida (2005): Mayoku Comes to Shōkei Named characters (in Pinyin): Magu Zhangjing Nanquan Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ma Ku Chang Ching Nan Ch’uan Named characters (in Japanese): Mayoku Shōkei… Continue reading Case 31: Magu Shakes his Staff

Case 32: An Audience with Linji Title in Sullivan (2021): An Audience with Linji Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Elder Ting Stands Motionless Title in Sekida (2005): Jō Jōza Stands Still Named characters (in Pinyin): Shangzuo Ding (or “Elder Ding”) (n.d.) Linji Yixuan (d. 866) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Elder Ting Lin Chi Named characters (in Japanese):… Continue reading Case 32: An Audience with Linji

Case 33: Zifu Draws a Circle Title in Sullivan (2021): Zifu Draws a Circle Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ministry President Ch’en Sees Tzu Fu Title in Sekida (2005): Chinsō Shōsho Comes to Visit Shifuku Named characters (in Pinyin): Chencao Zifu Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ch’en Ts’ao Tzu Fu Named characters (in Japanese): Chinsō Shifuku… Continue reading Case 33: Zifu Draws a Circle

Case 34: Yangshan Descends into the Weeds Title in Sullivan (2021): Yangshan Descends into the Weeds Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yang Shan Asks, “Where Have you Come From?” Title in Sekida (2005): Kyōzan’s “You Have Not Visited Rozan” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yangshan Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yang Shan Yun Men Named… Continue reading Case 34: Yangshan Descends into the Weeds

Case 35: The Dialogue of Mañjuśrī and Wuzhao Title in Sullivan (2021): The Dialogue of Mañjuśrī and Wuzhao Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): The Dialogue of Manjusri and Wu Cho Title in Sekida (2005): Manjusri’s “Threes and Threes” Named characters (in Pinyin): Mañjuśrī Wuzhao Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Mañjuśrī Wu Cho Named characters (in Japanese):… Continue reading Case 35: The Dialogue of Mañjuśrī and Wuzhao

Case 36: Changsha Returns to the Temple Title in Sullivan (2021): Changsha Returns to the Temple Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ch’ang Sha Wandering in the Mountains Title in Sekida (2005): Chōsa Went for a Walk Named characters (in Pinyin): Changsha Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ch’ang Sha Named characters (in Japanese): Chōsha Historical commentaries: Hakuin… Continue reading Case 36: Changsha Returns to the Temple

Case 37: Panshan’s Triple World Title in Sullivan (2021): Panshan’s Triple World Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): P’an Shan’s There Is Nothing in the World Title in Sekida (2005): Banzan’s “Three Worlds, No Dharma” Named characters (in Pinyin): Panshan Named characters (in Wade-Giles): P’an Shan Named characters (in Japanese): Banzan Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku and… Continue reading Case 37: Panshan’s Triple World

Case 38: Fengxue’s Iron Ox Title in Sullivan (2021): Fengxue’s Iron Ox Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Feng Hsueh’s Workings of the Iron Ox Title in Sekida (2005): Fuketsu and the Dharma Seal of the Patriarch Named characters (in Pinyin): Fengxue Lupi Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Feng Hsueh Lu P’i Named characters (in Japanese): Fuketsu… Continue reading Case 38: Fengxue’s Iron Ox

Case 39: Yunmen’s Golden Haired Lion Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen’s Golden Haired Lion Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men’s Flowering Hedge Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s “Kayakuran” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Ummon Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku and Tenkei Denson (contained in Secrets… Continue reading Case 39: Yunmen’s Golden Haired Lion

Case 40: Nanquan Points to a Flower Title in Sullivan (2021): Nanquan Points to a Flower Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Nan Ch’uan’s It’s like a Dream Title in Sekida (2005): Nansen’s “This Flower” Named characters (in Pinyin): Luxuan Sengzhao Nanquan Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Lu Hsuan Seng Chao Nan Ch’uan Named characters (in Japanese):… Continue reading Case 40: Nanquan Points to a Flower

Case 41: Touzi’s Great Death Title in Sullivan (2021): Touzi’s Great Death Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chao Chou’s Man Who Has Died the Great Death Title in Sekida (2005): Jōshū and the Great Death Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Touzi Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chao Chou T’ou Tzu Named characters (in Japanese): Jōshū Tōsu… Continue reading Case 41: Touzi’s Great Death

Case 42: Layman Pang’s Perfect Snowflake Title in Sullivan (2021): Layman Pang’s Perfect Snowflake Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Layman P’ang’s Good Snowflakes Title in Sekida (2005): Hō Koji’s “Beautiful Snowflakes” Named characters (in Pinyin): Layman Pang, Yaoshan and Quan. Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Layman P’ang, Yao Shan and Ch’uan. Named characters (in Japanese): Hō… Continue reading Case 42: Layman Pang’s Perfect Snowflake

Case 43: Dongshan’s Heat and Cold Title in Sullivan (2021): Dongshan’s Heat and Cold Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Tung Shan’s No Cold or Heat Title in Sekida (2005): Tōzan’s “No Cold or Heat” Named characters (in Pinyin): Dongshan Liangjie Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Tung Shan Liang Chieh Named characters (in Japanese): Tōzan Other koan… Continue reading Case 43: Dongshan’s Heat and Cold

Case 44: Heshan Beats the Drum Title in Sullivan (2021): Heshan Beats the Drum Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ho Shan’s Knowing How to Beat the Drum Title in Sekida (2005): Kasan’s “Beating the Drum” Named characters (in Pinyin): Heshan Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ho Shan Named characters (in Japanese): Kasan Other koan collections: The… Continue reading Case 44: Heshan Beats the Drum

Case 45: Zhaozhou’s Canvas Jacket Title in Sullivan (2021): Zhaozhou’s Canvass Jacket Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chao Chou’s Seven-Pound Cloth Shirt Title in Sekida (2005): Jōshū’s Seven-Pound Hempen Shirt Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chao Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Jōshū Historical commentaries:  Hakuin Ekaku and Tenkei Denson (contained in Secrets… Continue reading Case 45: Zhaozhou’s Canvas Jacket

Case 46: Jingqing Hears Raindrops Title in Sullivan (2021): Jingqing Hears Raindrops Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ching Ch’ing’s Sound of Raindrops Title in Sekida (2005): Kyōsei’s “Voice of the Raindrops” Named characters (in Pinyin): Jingqing Daofu (868-937) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ching Ch’ing Named characters (in Japanese): Kyōsei Other koan collections: The True Dharma… Continue reading Case 46: Jingqing Hears Raindrops

Case 47: Yunmen’s Body of Reality Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen’s Body of Reality Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men’s Six Do Not Take It In Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s “Beyond the Six” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Ummon Historical commentaries: Hakuin… Continue reading Case 47: Yunmen’s Body of Reality

Case 48: Tea at Zhaoqing Temple Title in Sullivan (2021): Tea at Zhaoqing Temple Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Turning Over the Tea Kettle at Chao Ch’ing Title in Sekida (2005): Ō Taifu and the Tea Ceremony Named characters (in Pinyin): Wang Taifu (or “Great Superintendent Wang”) Lang Shangzuo (or “Elder Lang”) Mingzhao. Named characters… Continue reading Case 48: Tea at Zhaoqing Temple

Case 49: Xuefeng’s Gold-Scaled Fish Title in Sullivan (2021): Xuefeng’s Gold-Scaled Fish Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): San Sheng’s Golden Fish Who Has Passed through the Net Title in Sekida (2005): Sanshō’s “The Golden Carp out of the Net” Named characters (in Pinyin): Sansheng Xuefeng Yicun (822-908) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): San Sheng Hsueh Feng Named… Continue reading Case 49: Xuefeng’s Gold-Scaled Fish

Case 50: Yunmen’s Bowl and Bucket Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen’s Bowl and Bucket Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men’s Every Atom Samadhi Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s “Particle After Particle’s Samadhi” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Ummon Other koan collections: The Book… Continue reading Case 50: Yunmen’s Bowl and Bucket

Case 51: Yantou’s Last Word Title in Sullivan (2021): Yantou’s Last Word Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Hsueh Feng’s What Is It? Title in Sekida (2005): Seppō’s “What is This?” Named characters (in Pinyin): Xuefeng Yicun (822-908) Yantou Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Hsueh Feng Yen T’ou Named characters (in Japanese): Seppō Gantō Other koan collections: The… Continue reading Case 51: Yantou’s Last Word

Case 52: The Bridge of Zhaozhou Title in Sullivan (2021): The Bridge of Zhaozhou Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chao Chou Lets Asses Cross, Lets Horses Cross Title in Sekida (2005): Jōshū’s Stone Bridge Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chao Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Jōshū Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku and… Continue reading Case 52: The Bridge of Zhaozhou

Case 53: Baizhang’s Wild Ducks Title in Sullivan (2021): Baizhang’s Wild Ducks Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Pai Chang’s Wild Ducks Title in Sekida (2005): Hyakujō and a Wild Duck Named characters (in Pinyin): Mazu Daoyi (aka Great Master Ma) (709-788) Baizhang Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ma Tsu Pai Chang Named characters (in Japanese): Baso… Continue reading Case 53: Baizhang’s Wild Ducks

Case 54: Yunmen and the Monk Stretch their Hands Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen and the Monk Stretch their Hands Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men Extends Both Hands Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon Stretches Out His Hands Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese):… Continue reading Case 54: Yunmen and the Monk Stretch their Hands

Case 55: Daowu Won’t Say Title in Sullivan (2021): Daowu Won’t Say Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Tao Wu’s Condolence Call Title in Sekida (2005): Dōgo’s “I Would Not Tell You” Named characters (in Pinyin): Daowu Jianyuan Shishuang Taiyuan Fu Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Tao Wu Chien Yuan Shih Shuang Fu of T’ai Yuan Named… Continue reading Case 55: Daowu Won’t Say

Case 56: Qinshan and the Arrow Title in Sullivan (2021): Qinshan and the Arrow Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ch’in Shan’s One Arrowpoint Smashes Three Barriers Title in Sekida (2005): Kinzan and One Arrow Piercing the Three Barriers Named characters (in Pinyin): Chanke Liang (or “Zen Traveller Liang”) Qinshan Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Liang Ch’in… Continue reading Case 56: Qinshan and the Arrow

Case 57: Zhaozhou Alone is Honored Title in Sullivan (2021): Zhaozhou Alone is Honored Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chao Chou’s Stupid Oaf Title in Sekida (2005): Jōshū’s “I Alone am Holy Throughout Heaven and Earth” Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chao Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Jōshū Historical commentaries: Hakuin… Continue reading Case 57: Zhaozhou Alone is Honored

Case 58: Zhaozhou Doesn’t Have an Answer Title in Sullivan (2021): Zhaozhou Doesn’t Have an Answer Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chao Chou Can’t Explain Title in Sekida (2005): Jōshū’s “No Justification” Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chao Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Jōshū Other koan collections:. Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku and… Continue reading Case 58: Zhaozhou Doesn’t Have an Answer

Case 59: Zhaozhou Quotes the Whole Saying Title in Sullivan (2021): Zhaozhou Quotes the Whole Saying Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chao Chou’s Why Not Quote It Fully? Title in Sekida (2005): Jōshū’s “Why Not Quote to the End?” Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chao Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Jōshū… Continue reading Case 59: Zhaozhou Quotes the Whole Saying

Case 60: Yunmen’s Staff Became a Dragon Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen’s Staff Became a Dragon Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men’s Staff Changes into a Dragon Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s Staff Becoming a Dragon Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Ummon Historical… Continue reading Case 60: Yunmen’s Staff Became a Dragon

Case 61: Fengxue’s Speck of Dust Title in Sullivan (2021): Fengxue’s Speck of Dust Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Feng Hsueh’s One Atom of Dust Title in Sekida (2005): Fuketsu’s “One Particle of Dust” Named characters (in Pinyin): Fengxue Xuedou Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Feng Hsueh Hsueh Tou Named characters (in Japanese): Fuketsu Setchō Other… Continue reading Case 61: Fengxue’s Speck of Dust

Case 62: Yunmen’s Hidden Gem Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen’s Hidden Gem Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men’s Within There Is a Jewel Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s “One Treasure” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Ummon Other koan collections: The Book of Equanimity,… Continue reading Case 62: Yunmen’s Hidden Gem

Case 63: Nanquan Killed the Cat Title in Sullivan (2021): Nanquan Killed the Cat Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Nan Ch’uan Kills a Cat Title in Sekida (2005): Nansen Cuts the Cat in Two Named characters (in Pinyin): Nanquan Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Nan Ch’uan Chao Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Nansen Jōshū Other… Continue reading Case 63: Nanquan Killed the Cat

Case 64: Zhaozhou Walks Away Title in Sullivan (2021): Zhaozhou Walks Away Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Nan Ch’uan Questions Chao Chou Title in Sekida (2005): Jōshū Puts His Sandals on His Head Named characters (in Pinyin): Nanquan Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Nan Ch’uan Chao Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Nansen Jōshū Other koan… Continue reading Case 64: Zhaozhou Walks Away

Case 65: A Hindu Man Questions the Buddha Title in Sullivan (2021): A Hindu Man Questions the Buddha Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): An Outsider Questions the Buddha Title in Sekida (2005): A Non-Buddhist Philosopher Questions the Buddha Named characters: Shakyamuni Ānanda Other koan collections: The Gateless Barrier, Case #32 The True Dharma Eye, Case #170 Historical… Continue reading Case 65: A Hindu Man Questions the Buddha

Case 66: A Monks Gets Huang Chao’s Sword Title in Sullivan (2021): A Monks Gets Huang Chao’s Sword Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yen T’ou’s Getting Huang Ch’ao’s Sword Title in Sekida (2005): Gantō Laughed Loudly Named characters (in Pinyin): Yantou Huang Chao Xuefeng Yicun (822-908) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yen T’ou Huang Ch’ao Hsueh Feng… Continue reading Case 66: A Monks Gets Huang Chao’s Sword

Case 67: Mahāsattva Fu Explains the Diamond Sūtra Title in Sullivan (2021): Mahāsattva Fu Explains the Diamond Sūtra Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Mahasattva Fu Expounds the Scripture Title in Sekida (2005): Fu Daishi Concludes His Lecture on the Sutra Named characters (in Pinyin): Liang Wudi (or “Emperor Wu of Liang”) Fu Dashi (or “Mahasattva… Continue reading Case 67: Mahāsattva Fu Explains the Diamond Sūtra

Case 68: Yangshan Burst Out Laughing Title in Sullivan (2021): Yangshan Burst Out Laughing Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yang Shan’s What’s Your Name Title in Sekida (2005): Kyōzan Asks Sanshō’s Name Named characters (in Pinyin): Yangshan Sansheng Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yang Shan San Sheng Named characters (in Japanese): Kyōzan Sanshō Historical commentaries: Hakuin… Continue reading Case 68: Yangshan Burst Out Laughing

Case 69: Nanquan Stops Halfway Title in Sullivan (2021): Nanquan Stops Halfway Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Nan Ch’uan’s Circle Title in Sekida (2005): Nansen Draws a Circle Named characters (in Pinyin): Nanquan Guizong Cezhen (aka Huichao) (d. 979) Magu Nanyang Huizhong (aka Guoshi Zhong or “National Teacher Zhong”) (d. 775) Named characters (in Wade-Giles):… Continue reading Case 69: Nanquan Stops Halfway

Case 70: Baizhang Fears for his Heirs Title in Sullivan (2021): Baizhang Fears for his Heirs Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Kuei Shan Attends on Pai Chang Title in Sekida (2005): Isan’s “I Would Ask You to Say It” Named characters (in Pinyin): Guishan Lingyou (771-853) Wufeng Yunyan Baizhang Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Kuei Shan… Continue reading Case 70: Baizhang Fears for his Heirs

Case 71: Baizhang Searches the Distance Title in Sullivan (2021): Baizhang Searches the Distance Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Wu Feng’s Shut Up, Teacher Title in Sekida (2005): Gohō’s “Shut Up” Named characters (in Pinyin): Baizhang Wufeng Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Pai Chang Wu Feng Named characters (in Japanese): Hyakujō Gohō Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku… Continue reading Case 71: Baizhang Searches the Distance

Case 72: Baizhang is Bereft Title in Sullivan (2021): Baizhang is Bereft Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Pai Chang Questions Yun Yen Title in Sekida (2005): Ungan’s “Do You Have Them or Not?” Named characters (in Pinyin): Baizhang Yunyan Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Pai Chang Yun Yen Named characters (in Japanese): Hyakujō Ungan Historical commentaries:… Continue reading Case 72: Baizhang is Bereft

Case 73: Great Master Ma’s Permutations of Assertion and Denial Title in Sullivan (2021): Great Master Ma’s Permutations of Assertion and Denial Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ma Tsu’s Permutations of Assertion and Denial Title in Sekida (2005): Baso and the Hundred Negations Named characters (in Pinyin): Mazu Daoyi (aka Great Master Ma) (709-788) Zhizang… Continue reading Case 73: Great Master Ma’s Permutations of Assertion and Denial

Case 74: Jinniu Breaks into a Dance Title in Sullivan (2021): Jinniu Breaks into a Dance Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chin Niu’s Rice Pail Title in Sekida (2005): Kingyū Oshō and the Rice Pail Named characters (in Pinyin): Jinnui Changqing Da’an Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chin Niu Ch’ang Ch’ing Named characters (in Japanese): Kingyū… Continue reading Case 74: Jinniu Breaks into a Dance

Case 75: Wujiu’s Unjust Beating Title in Sullivan (2021): Wujiu’s Unjust Beating Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Wu Chiu’s Unjust Beating Title in Sekida (2005): Ukyū’s Unfair Blows Named characters (in Pinyin): Wujiu Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Wu Chiu Named characters (in Japanese): Ukyū Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku and Tenkei Denson (contained in Secrets of the… Continue reading Case 75: Wujiu’s Unjust Beating

Case 76: Changqing and Baofu Discuss Donations Title in Sullivan (2021): Changqing and Baofu Discuss Donations Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Tan Hsia’s Have You Eaten Yet Title in Sekida (2005): Tanka’s “Have You Had Your Dinner?” Named characters (in Pinyin): Danxia Changqing Huileng (854-932) Baofu Congzhan (d. 928) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Tan Hsia… Continue reading Case 76: Changqing and Baofu Discuss Donations

Case 77: Yunmen’s Cake Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen’s Cake Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men’s Cake Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s “A Sesame Bun” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Ummon Other koan collections: The Book of Equanimity, Case #78 Historical commentaries: Hakuin… Continue reading Case 77: Yunmen’s Cake

Case 78: Sixteen Bodhisattvas Enter the Bathhouse Title in Sullivan (2021): Sixteen Bodhisattvas Enter the Bathhouse Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Sixteen Bodhisattvas Go in to Bathe Title in Sekida (2005): Bodhisattvas in the Bath Named characters: None Historical commentaries: Zhitong (in Daughters of Emptiness, trans. by Beata Grant, 2003) Hakuin Ekaku and Tenkei Denson (contained… Continue reading Case 78: Sixteen Bodhisattvas Enter the Bathhouse

Case 79: Touzi and the Buddha’s Voice Title in Sullivan (2021): Touzi and the Buddha’s Voice Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): T’ou Tzu’s All Sounds Title in Sekida (2005): Tōsu and “Every Voice Is the Buddha’s Voice” Named characters (in Pinyin): Touzi Named characters (in Wade-Giles): T’ou Tzu Named characters (in Japanese): Tōsu Historical commentaries:… Continue reading Case 79: Touzi and the Buddha’s Voice

Case 80: Zhaozhou’s Newborn Title in Sullivan (2021): Zhaozhou’s Newborn Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chao Chou’s Newborn Baby Title in Sekida (2005): Jōshū’s “A Newborn Baby” Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chao Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Jōshū Historical commentaries:  Modern commentaries: Matthew Juksan Sullivan (contained in The Garden of Flowers… Continue reading Case 80: Zhaozhou’s Newborn

Case 81: Yaoshan’s Elk of Elks Title in Sullivan (2021): Yaoshan’s Elk of Elks Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yao Shan’s Shooting the Elk of Elks Title in Sekida (2005): Yakusan’s King of the King Deer Named characters (in Pinyin): Yaoshan Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yao Shan Named characters (in Japanese): Yakusan Historical commentaries: Hakuin… Continue reading Case 81: Yaoshan’s Elk of Elks

Case 82: Dalong’s Flowers on the Hillside Title in Sullivan (2021): Dalong’s Flowers on the Hillside Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ta Lung’s Hard and Fast Body of Reality Title in Sekida (2005): Tairyū’s “Indestructible Dharma Body” Named characters (in Pinyin): Dalong Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ta Lung Named characters (in Japanese): Tairyū Historical commentaries:… Continue reading Case 82: Dalong’s Flowers on the Hillside

Case 83: Yunmen’s Exposed Pillar Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen’s Exposed Pillar Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men’s Ancient Buddhas and the Pillar Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s “The Old Buddha Communes with the Pillar” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Ummon Other koan… Continue reading Case 83: Yunmen’s Exposed Pillar

Case 84: Vimalakirti’s Dharma Gate of Non-Duality Title in Sullivan (2021): Vimalakīrti’s Dharma Gate of Non-Duality Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Vimalakirti’s Gate of Nonduality Title in Sekida (2005): Yuima’s “The Gate to the One and Only” Named characters: Vimalakīrti Mañjuśrī Named characters (in Japanese): Yuima Monju Other koan collections: The Book of Equanimity, Case… Continue reading Case 84: Vimalakirti’s Dharma Gate of Non-Duality

Case 85: The Hermit of Paulownia Tree Peak Receives a Visitor Title in Sullivan (2021): The Hermit of Paulownia Tree Peak Receives a Visitor Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): The Hermit of T’ung Feng Makes a Tiger’s Roar Title in Sekida (2005): The Master of Tōhō Hermitage Roars Like a Tiger Named characters (in Pinyin):… Continue reading Case 85: The Hermit of Paulownia Tree Peak Receives a Visitor

Case 86: Yunmen and the Radiance Within Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen and the Radiance Within Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yun Men’s Kitchen Pantry and Main Gate Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s “Everybody Has His Own Light” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Ummon… Continue reading Case 86: Yunmen and the Radiance Within

Case 87: Yunmen’s Medicine and Disease Title in Sullivan (2021): Yunmen’s Medicine and Disease Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Medicine and Disease Subdue Each Other Title in Sekida (2005): Ummon’s “Medicine and Sickness Cure Each Other” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Ummon Historical commentaries:… Continue reading Case 87: Yunmen’s Medicine and Disease

Case 88: Xuansha’s Three Ailments Title in Sullivan (2021): Xuansha’s Ailments Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Hsuan Sha’s Guiding and Aiding Living Beings Title in Sekida (2005): Gensha’s Man of Three Disabilities Named characters (in Pinyin): Xuansha Yunmen Wenyan (864-949) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Hsuan Sha Yun Men Named characters (in Japanese): Gensha Ummon Historical commentaries:… Continue reading Case 88: Xuansha’s Three Ailments

Case 89: Daowu and the Person Reaching for a Pillow Title in Sullivan (2021): Daowu and the Person Reaching for a Pillow Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): The Hands and Eyes of the Bodhisattva of Great Compassion Title in Sekida (2005): Ungan’s “The Whole Body Is Hand and Eye” Named characters (in Pinyin): Yunyan Daowu… Continue reading Case 89: Daowu and the Person Reaching for a Pillow

Case 90: The Wisdom of Zhimen Title in Sullivan (2021): The Wisdom of Zhimen Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chih Men’s Body of Wisdom Title in Sekida (2005): Chimon and the Essence of Prajna Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhimen Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chih Men Named characters (in Japanese): Chimon Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku and… Continue reading Case 90: The Wisdom of Zhimen

Case 91: Yanguan’s Rhinoceros Fan Title in Sullivan (2021): Yanguan’s Rhinoceros Fan Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Yen Kuan’s Rhinoceros Title in Sekida (2005): Enkan and the Rhinoceros Fan Named characters (in Pinyin): Yanguan Touzi Shishuang Zifu Baofu Congzhan (d. 928) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Yen Kuan T’ou Tzu Shih Shuang Tzu Fu Pao Fu… Continue reading Case 91: Yanguan’s Rhinoceros Fan

Case 92: The World Honored One Ascends the Podium Title in Sullivan (2021): The World Honored One Ascends the Podium Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): The World Honored One Ascends the Seat Title in Sekida (2005): The World-honored One Takes His Seat Named characters: Shakyamuni Mañjuśrī. Other koan collections: The Book of Equanimity, Case #1… Continue reading Case 92: The World Honored One Ascends the Podium

Case 93: Daguang Breaks into a Dance Title in Sullivan (2021): Daguang Breaks into a Dance Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ta Kuang Does a Dance Title in Sekida (2005): Taikō’s “You Fox-Devil” Named characters (in Pinyin): Daguang Changqing (Da’an) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ta Kuang Ch’ang Ch’ing Named characters (in Japanese): Taikō Chōkei Historical… Continue reading Case 93: Daguang Breaks into a Dance

Case 94: The Śūraṅgama Sūtra’s Not-Seeing Title in Sullivan (2021): The Śūraṅgama Sūtra’s Not-Seeing Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): The Surangama Scripture’s Not Seeing Title in Sekida (2005): The Surangama Sutra and “Unseeing” Named characters: none. Other koan collections: The Book of Equanimity, Case #88. Historical commentaries: Hakuin Ekaku and Tenkei Denson (contained in Secrets of the… Continue reading Case 94: The Śūraṅgama Sūtra’s Not-Seeing

Case 95: Changqing Lectures with a Spare Head Title in Sullivan (2021): Changqing Lectures with a Spare Head Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Ch’ang Ch’ing’s Three Poisons Title in Sekida (2005): Chōkei and Hofuku Discuss the Buddha’s Words Named characters (in Pinyin): Changqing Huileng (854-932) Baofu Congzhan (d. 928) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Ch’ang Ch’ing… Continue reading Case 95: Changqing Lectures with a Spare Head

Case 96: Zhaozhou’s Turning Phrases Title in Sullivan (2021): Zhaozhou’s Turning Phrases Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Chao Chou’s Three Turning Words Title in Sekida (2005): Jōshū’s Three Turning Words Named characters (in Pinyin): Zhaozhou Congshen (778-897) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Chao Chou Named characters (in Japanese): Jōshū Historical commentaries: Chan Masters Miaozong, Baochi and Zukui (contained… Continue reading Case 96: Zhaozhou’s Turning Phrases

Case 97: The Diamond Sūtra’s Crimes of Past Lives Title in Sullivan (2021): The Diamond Sūtra’s Crimes of Past Lives Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): The Diamond Cutter Scripture’s Scornful Revilement Title in Sekida (2005): The Diamond Sutra’s “The Transgression Is Wiped Out” Named characters: none. Other koan collections: The Book of Equanimity, Case #58.… Continue reading Case 97: The Diamond Sūtra’s Crimes of Past Lives

Case 98: Master Tianping on Pilgrimage Title in Sullivan (2021): Master Tianping on Pilgrimage Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): T’ien P’ing Travels on Foot Title in Sekida (2005): Tempyō’s Two Wrongs Named characters (in Pinyin): Tianping Xiyuan Named characters (in Wade-Giles): T’ien P’ing Hsi Yuan Named characters (in Japanese): Tempyō Sai-in Other koan collections: The… Continue reading Case 98: Master Tianping on Pilgrimage

Case 99: The National Teacher Answers the Emperor Title in Sullivan (2021): The National Teacher Answers the Emperor Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Su Tsung’s Ten-Body Controller Title in Sekida (2005): “Chū Kokushi and the Ten-bodied Herdsman” Named characters (in Pinyin): Suzong Di (or Emperor Suzong of the Tang) (711-762) Nanyang Huizhong (aka Guoshi Zhong… Continue reading Case 99: The National Teacher Answers the Emperor

Case 100: Baling’s Blown Feather Sword Title in Sullivan (2021): Baling’s Blown Feather Sword Title in Cleary and Cleary (1992): Pa Ling’s Blown Hair Sword Title in Sekida (2005): Haryō’s Sword Against Which a Hair Is Blown Named characters (in Pinyin): Baling Haojian (n.d.) Named characters (in Wade-Giles): Pa Ling Named characters (in Japanese): Haryō Historical… Continue reading Case 100: Baling’s Blown Feather Sword

Bibliography App, Urs. Zen Master Yunmen: His Life and Collected Sayings. Boulder: Shambhala, 2018. Arntzen, Sonja Elaine. The Poetry of the Kyōunshū “Crazy Cloud Anthology” of Ikkyū Sōjun. Unpublished doctoral thesis, University of British Columbia, 1979. Cleary, Thomas. Secrets of the Blue Cliff Record: Zen Commentaries by Hakuin and Tenkei. Boston: Shambhala, 2002 Grant, Beata. Zen Echoes: Classic Kōans with Verse… Continue reading Bibliography