Seng-ts’an (?-606) was the Third Patriarch of Chinese Chán Buddhism, known for his influential poem, "Faith in Mind" (Xinxin Ming). His teachings emphasized the Harmony between Meditation and Wisdom, and the non-dual Nature of reality. Seng-ts’an's Work contributed significantly to the Integration of Daoist principles with Buddhist Practice. His legacy endures in the Zen Tradition, impacting both historical and Contemporary understandings of Zen Philosophy.
Anecdotes
- Allegedly passed his teachings to a successor while hanging upside down from a tree to illustrate non-Attachment.
- Lived as a recluse in the mountains, reportedly subsisting on nothing but pine nuts and Water.
- Believed to have passed down his teachings orally, with little to no written records, emphasizing the ephemeral nature of Words and ideas.
Magnitudes
- Embrace uncertainty; let go of rigid plans.
- Embrace stillness to cultivate insight and clarity.
- Embrace uncertainty to discover deeper truths.
Explore these important ideas through classics in our archives contributed by or related to Seng-ts’an.
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The Rise and Spread of Buddhism (circa 6th century BCE)
The Rise and Spread of Buddhism (circa 6th century BCE)
