Zen phrases translation notes

Author: Yuan Bin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1999-02-01
Features: This book selects 1,301 Zen sayings from over 400 Zen masters in Chinese history (including a few laypeople). It includes Zen masters who have had a significant impact on Zen history and hold important positions in the Zen lineage. It also features notable figures with Zen sayings in the literature, such as emperors, ministers, general lay practitioners, female Zen masters, and others. The selected sayings aim to reflect Zen thought from different perspectives, the characteristics of various Zen schools, their development, and the customs and traditions of the Zen community, while also considering readability. The development of Chinese Zen reached its peak during the middle and late Tang Dynasty, the Five Dynasties period, and the early Northern Song Dynasty. The Zen sayings from this period are sharp, innovative, lively, and full of intellectual passion, demonstrating strong creativity and embodying the spirit of Zen. Therefore, this book primarily focuses on this period for its selection. The term "Zen saying" used in this book mainly refers to the recorded sayings of Zen monks but also includes other works by Zen monks, such as letters and notes. Reading a bit of Zen can add a sense of confidence to life. The human heart yearns for happiness and freedom, and the hope for "every day to be a good day" reflects the lingering troubles in the real world. The moon still shines, and all things renew. Today's society is vastly different from the Tang and Song dynasties. However, in terms of human psychology and emotions, there are still many similarities between ancient and modern times. Modern people also encounter troubles, feel frustrated and seek liberation, longing for peace and joy. Moreover, with theing pace of life, intensifying survival competition, increasingly complex work, and more refined thinking, modern people often find themselves in anxiety and tension, making spiritual regulation even more necessary. Reading a bit of Zen and embracing its sense of normalcy may be beneficial to us.