Inzan Ien

Inzan Ien (1751–1814), also known as Inzan Itan, was a student of Gasan Jitō, one of Hakuin Ekaku's principal heirs. Together with his dharma brother Takuju Kosen, Inzan systematized the koan curriculum that Hakuin had developed, creating one of the two main post-Hakuin training systems. The Inzan line became the dominant Rinzai lineage and continues to exert the strongest influence on Rinzai training today.

Inzan became abbot of Myōshin-ji, the head temple of the largest branch of Rinzai Zen, in 1808. His approach to koan practice was characterized by sharpness, speed, and a dynamic, confrontational style that contrasted with the more methodical approach of the Takuju line. Nearly all major modern Rinzai teachers trace their lineage through Inzan's successors.