Seminar by Taigen on Hongzhi and Cultivating the Empty Field

Online Seminar by Taigen Leighton on Chan/Zen Master Hongzhi (1091-1157) and his teachings. Hongzhi was the most prominent Caodong/Sōtō master of his time, known for his eloquent and incisive teachings. We will discuss Hongzhi’s historical background and his importance in the Sōtō lineage, and discuss some of his teachings in Cultivating the Empty Field, translated by Taigen. 1-4:30 PM CST. To register, fill out the form below. For more information, contact info@ancientdragon.org. Suggested donation $50, but sliding scale available to all, less or more is welcome. All are invited regardless of insufficient funds.

Hongzhi’s rich, poetic teachings present the inner workings of Zen wisdom using evocative nature imagery as well as traditional Zen Buddhist and Chinese cultural lore. Hongzhi was a Dharma uncle and major influence for Japanese Sōtō founder Eihei Dōgen a century later.