Biographies of the Eighteen High Monks

Author: Cong Peixiang
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-05-01
Features: Want to learn about the Buddhist monk Faxian of the "Buddhist Journey to the West"? Curious about the fearless Xuanzang who traveled to India, spread Buddhism, and gained fame in China? Interested in the Mahayana Buddhist figure Kumarajiva? This book vividly and authentically describes the glorious achievements of eighteen eminent monks in promoting Buddhism and spreading culture: An Shigao, Dao'an, Kumarajiva, Faxian, Huayan, Zhiqie, Jizang, Xuanzang, Daoshan, Fazang, Bodhidharma, Huineng, Shantideva, Yixing, Ganjin, Huaihai, Jing'an, and Hongzhi. This is an important historical and cultural heritage that plays a significant role in inheriting national culture and building a harmonious society. An Shigao, Dao'an, Kumarajiva, Faxian, Huayan, Zhiqie, Jizang, Xuanzang, Daoshan, Fazang, Bodhidharma, Huineng, Shantideva, Yixing, Ganjin, Huaihai, Jing'an, Hongzhi—this book authentically and completely portrays the characteristics and achievements of these eighteen eminent monks.
The path of Buddhism originated in India; the White Horse carrying the scriptures first reached China. The introduction of the great Dharma to the East followed the footsteps of the sages. The lotus flower does not grow on the branches of the tree; the superior fruits compete for ascent. The five teachings and ten schools, diverse yet coherent in their principles. Each serves its purpose, meeting where it belongs. The long river of literature and history, with its merits and faults, are self-sufficient. The twelve causes and conditions converge, and the three thousand worlds intertwine. The joy of clouds and harmony, with the dharma drum, spread far and wide; the voice of odes, together with the sacred sound of Buddhism, echoes into the distance.
In all great compassionate teachings, there is the boundless compassion of the thousand worlds, and must contain the deep longing for the path. To cultivate a broad heart, make a vow for universal benefit, achieve virtuous deeds, and attain the supreme fruit. How can those who fear life and death, indulge in emptiness and stillness, comprehend this?
To commemorate the honor of transmitting the Dharma, for the admiration of all beings, our worthy ten wings of the lotus, with their wonderful brush, respectfully write the solemn images, thus making the compassionate light shine brightly in the monasteries.
May you, the master of the model life, be like Wang Wei, diligent and tireless, in this monastic journey.
My humble talent is mediocre, and my understanding of the path is limited. To compose a grand narrative that is comprehensive and detailed—this is beyond my ability. With trepidation, I accept the task of writing and inscribing these words, hoping that those who come after will understand the reasons behind this.