Chan Buddhism

Dimensions of Asian Spirituality

by Peter D. Hershock

Chan Buddhism has become paradigmatic of Buddhist spirituality. Known in Japan as Zen and in Korea as Son, it is one of the most strikingly iconoclastic spiritual traditions in the world. This succinct and lively work clearly expresses the meaning of Chan as it developed in China more than a thousand years ago and provides useful insights into the distinctive aims and forms of practice associated with the tradition, including its emphasis on the unity of wisdom and practice; the reality of "sudden awakening"; the importance of meditation; the use of "shock tactics"; the centrality of the teacher-student relationship; and the celebration of enlightenment narratives, or koans.

Unlike many scholarly studies, which offer detailed perspectives on historical development, or guides for personal practice written by contemporary Buddhist teachers, this volume takes a middle path between these two approaches, weaving together both history and insight to convey to the general reader the conditions, energy, and creativity that characterize Chan. Following a survey of the birth and development of Chan, its practices and spirituality are fleshed out through stories and teachings drawn from the lives of four Bodhidharma, Huineng, Mazu, and Linji. Finally, the meaning of Chan as a living spiritual tradition is addressed through a philosophical reading of its practice as the realization of wisdom, attentive mastery, and moral clarity.

Genres: Buddhism, Philosophy

192 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2004

Reviews

[Sean Farrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Peter Hershock's Chan Buddhism combines a scholarly approach with a practitioners view providing the reader with a deep and practical study of Chan. Picking up the thread of Chan from its legendary origin (transmission from Shakyamuni to Mahashyapa) and then forward to its famed 1st patriarch Bodhidharma and then the 6th, Huineng, then Ma-tsu, then Linji (founder of one of the two still extant Zen schools, Rinzai); Chan Buddhism provides a through and somewhat critical review of Chan's history. Throughout, Hershock provides his own analysis as a practitioner providing practical insight that marries well with his scholarly review. Hershock also provides a short but excellent section of recommended texts for further reading. Recommended for those interested in deepening their understanding of Chan and their practice, though perhaps not for those new to the path.

[Jonathan · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent introduction to Chan Buddhism and its distinctly Chinese origin and development.

[LaMarx · Rating 4 out of 5]

I especially liked the historical context

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

not a bad book on Ch'an Buddhism but Hershock's writing at times takes away from the true definitions of some Buddhist terms.

IE. In Theravada Buddhism, the idealized person is called an arhat which Hershock links to the Judeo-Christian term, saint. these two things aren't quiet the same thing therefore you can see Hershock's philosopher tendencies leaking out and oh so slightly distorting this lesson on Ch'an Buddhism.

the historical break downs about Buddhism India, China and so on are fantastic though!

[Jason Craft · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great read -- a strong blend of history and philosophy.

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing. It is not just a book, it as an experience. Poetic, succinct, and enlivening!

[Eko]

This was an excellent read and had some great references which I will definitely explore.