Tiantong Zongjue

In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of Tiantong Zongjue, covering everything from its historical origin to its relevance today. _Var1 represents a topic that has captured the attention of numerous scholars and experts in the field, awakening growing interest in various areas of knowledge. Over the next few lines, we will examine the multiple facets and dimensions of Tiantong Zongjue, analyzing its impact on society and its influence in different contexts. We will delve into its deep meaning, discussing its implications and repercussions on the current panorama. Through this detailed exploration, we aim to shed light on Tiantong Zongjue and delve into its essence, offering the reader an enriching and enlightening perspective on this exciting topic.

Tiantong Zongjue
TitleChán master
Personal
Born1091
Died1162
ReligionBuddhism
DenominationChán/Zen
SchoolCaodong/Sōtō
Senior posting
TeacherZhenxie Qingliao
PredecessorZhenxie Qingliao
SuccessorXuedou Zhijian
Students

Tiantong Zongjue (Chinese: 天童宗珏; Japanese: Tendō Sōkaku), was a Chinese Zen Buddhist monk during the Song Dynasty. He was born in Hezhou, but left home to practice Buddhism at the age of sixteen. His ordination took place two years later. Zuzhao Daohe of the Yunmen School was his first teacher. However, Daohe retired and was replaced by Zhenxie Qingliao of the Caodong/Sōtō School, who became the teacher that gave Zongjue dharma transmission. In 1132, Zongjue became the abbot of Yuelin Temple where he served for 23 years. After this period, his abbacy switched to Mt. Xuedou. He remained there for four years before becoming the abbot of Tiantong Monastery near the modern city of Ningbo in 1159.: 438  He was replacing the former abbot, the famous Hongzhi Zhengjue, who died there in 1157. It was from this final temple, where Zongjue died in 1162, that he took his name.: 438  Tiantong temple was the same monastery where Eihei Dogen studied under Tiantong Rujing before bringing the teaching back to Japan and founding the Sōtō School.: 454 

References

  1. ^ a b c Ferguson, Andrew E. (2000), Zen's Chinese heritage: the masters and their teachings, Wisdom Publications, ISBN 978-0-86171-163-5
  2. ^ Schlütter, Morten (2010), How Zen Became Zen: The Dispute Over Enlightenment and the Formation of Chan Buddhism in Song-Dynasty China, University of Hawaii Press, p. 133, ISBN 978-0-8248-3508-8
Buddhist titles
Preceded by Sōtō Zen patriarch Succeeded by