Overview

One of the key tenets of the Zen school of Mahayana Buddhism is that each of us is already a Buddha -- our enlightenment is inherent within us and the practice of mindfulness is the tool to bring this truth to our awareness. While it can bring much relief, this simple statement does not preclude the need for practice. We must strive to be aware of our Buddha nature rather than waiting until times of emotional upheaval when it is more difficult to practice. Thich Nhat Hanh uses the teachings of ninth century Zen Master Linji, founder of the Rinzai school, to elaborate on this simple truth and to give readers tools that can help awaken them to their true inner nature. One of the unique aspects of Linji's teaching, is the need to wake ourselves up, not only by means of listening to enlightened teachings, but also through unique techniques such as the shout, the stick, and the empty fist. The teachings of Master Linji bring readers back to reality and to simply being. Powerful, direct, and uncompromising, Thich Nhat Hanh's reflections on the teachings of Master Lin Chi are destined to join the ranks of classic Buddhist writings.

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9781322544274

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Those who like robust Zen will enjoy both Linji's bluntness and Thich Nhat Hanh's candor in commenting on the master's work. --Shambhala Sun The teaching of Linji is not like any other master. He dares to say everything truthfully, clearly, and very frankly. When we follow a spiritual path, we have to learn and we have to practice. But when we can't digest what we've learned and can't use it in our daily life for our transformation, that's when we need the teachings of Master Linji. They are strong medicine--not a vitamin, but a purgative. --Thich Nhat Hanh If you aspire to Buddha, you lose Buddha. If you aspire to the Way you lose the Way. Do not commit this mistake! I do not need you to give a good explanation of the sutras. I do not need you to be eloquent, speaking non-stop, as a torrent of water. Nor do I need you to become wonderfully penetrating and wise. I just need you to have correct insight into the way things naturally are. --Master Linji As I see it, there isn't so much to do. Just be ordinary--put on your robes, eat your food, and pass the time doing nothing. --Master Linji

Author Information

Born in Hue, Vietnam, Thich Nhat Hanh is a Buddhist monk, poet, scholar, and human rights activist. In 1967 he was nominated by Martin Luther King, Jr., for the Nobel Peace Prize. He is author of more than one hundred books, including Being Peace, Happiness, Awakening of the Heart, and Reconciliation. He lives at Plum Village, a meditation center in France, and travels worldwide, leading retreats on the art of mindful living.

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