Touzi Yiqing

Touzi Yiqing received the Caodong transmission from Fushan Fayuan, who had held it in trust from Dayang Jingxuan. This unusual transmission—from a Linji master serving as custodian for a Caodong lineage—marked the beginning of the Caodong school's great revival. Touzi proved equal to the responsibility, establishing a thriving community and training students who would carry the tradition to new heights.

Touzi's principal student was Furong Daokai, through whom the Caodong revival gained full momentum. The success of the cross-lineage transmission demonstrates an important principle: authentic realization transcends school affiliation, and the Dharma can be recognized and transmitted by any master who possesses genuine understanding, regardless of their formal lineage. Touzi's acceptance of the Caodong teaching and his subsequent success in transmitting it vindicated Dayang's extraordinary decision.