Song · by 義銛述
898 · about 3 min
The Bamboo Verse by Yi Xian, a Song Dynasty monk of the Yangqi branch of the Linji school, uses bamboo as a metaphor for the nature of mind, elucidating the Chan teaching of sudden enlightenment. It emphasizes the original purity of the inherent mind and the essential practice of abiding in it without a moment's separation. With concise content and metaphorical reasoning, it carries forward the Tang and Song Chan tradition of integrating natural imagery with the insight of prajñā-emptiness. As a representative work of Chan literature from the Song Dynasty, it vividly embodies the practical philosophy of Chan—where daily activities are the Way, and truth is realized right within phenomena. Holding a unique place among Buddhist verses, it has often been cited and contemplated in later Chan communities.