Wuzhun Shifan
Wuzhun Shifan
c. 1178 – c. 1249
Wuzhun Shifan was a prominent Chan master of the Song dynasty who played an important role in the transmission of Chan to Japan. He was the teacher of several Japanese monks who returned to Japan and established influential Zen lineages. His portrait, given to his Japanese student Enni Ben'en, is one of the most famous works of Chan portrait painting and is designated a National Treasure of Japan.
Shifan's influence on Japanese Zen was significant, contributing to the establishment of Rinzai practice in Japan alongside the more well-known transmissions through Nanpo Jomyo. His teaching maintained the mature Song dynasty Linji style—rigorous koan practice combined with literary culture—and this integrated approach deeply influenced the Japanese understanding of Zen.
Teachings
- dialogueThe Meaning of Practice
A monk asked Wuzhun, "What is the meaning of a lifetime of practice?" Wuzhun said, "Walking, standing, sitting, lying down." The monk said, "Everyone walks, stands, sits, and lies down. How is that practice?" Wuzhun said, "When I walk, I only walk. When I sit, I only sit. You walk and think of sitting. You sit and think of walking. That is the difference."
Master Record Sources
- nameZen Editorial Overlay - Originals Curation
Wuzhun Shifan
- teachersZen Editorial Overlay - Originals Curation
Poan Zuxian