Ming · by 大壑輯
6,751 · about 23 min
The "Records of Yongming's Path" was compiled by the Ming Dynasty monk Shi Dahe and serves as an important biography documenting the life, deeds, and teachings of the eminent monk Yongming Yanshou from the Five Dynasties and early Song period. Completed during the Ming Dynasty, this work systematically organizes Yanshou's spiritual journey, his practice, and the core ideas found in his writings such as the "Mirror of the School." It reflects the Buddhist trends of the Song and Ming periods, particularly the integration of Chan and doctrinal teachings, as well as the practice of Pure Land recitation. As a key text for studying Yongming Yanshou, this book holds significant importance in Buddhist history. It profoundly influenced later practices that combined Chan and Pure Land cultivation and remains an essential text for understanding the syncretic thought within Chinese Buddhism.