The Six Patriarchs of Zen Buddhism

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The 6 Patriarchs of Zen Buddhism

The six patriarchs of Zen Buddhism play a crucial role in the history of Zen. These revered figures include: First Patriarch Bodhidharma, Second Patriarch Huike, Third Patriarch Sengcan, Fourth Patriarch Dao xin, Fifth Patriarch Hongren, and Sixth Patriarch Hui neng.

First Patriarch: Bodhidharma

Bodhidharma, a South Indian prince from the Kshatriya caste, studied under Master Prajnatara. He arrived in Guangzhou during the Southern Liang Dynasty and eventually settled at Shaolin Temple. Known for his nine years of wall-gazing meditation, Bodhidharma is remembered for his dedication to Zen teachings. He passed away in 536 CE, and his final resting place, marked by a pagoda, is at Baolin Temple. The Tang Emperor Daizong honored him as the "Zen Master of Perfect Enlightenment." Shaolin Temple still preserves sites like the "First Patriarch's Hermitage."

Second Patriarch: Huike

Born Shenguang, later renamed Sengke, Huike studied both Taoist texts and Buddhist scriptures. He famously sought Bodhidharma’s teachings by cutting off his arm to demonstrate his determination. Recognized for his profound understanding, Huike received the Dharma transmission, robe, and bowl. His legacy includes the propagation of Zen teachings and his title "Great Patriarch Zen Master," bestowed by Tang Emperor Dezong.

Third Patriarch: Sengcan

Sengcan, a Sui Dynasty monk, became the Dharma heir of Huike. During Emperor Wu's Buddhist persecution, Sengcan sought refuge but resumed teaching later. He founded his practice at Sanguyan Temple and is known for "Faith in Mind," a revered text. Emperor Daizong posthumously honored him as "Zen Master of Mirror Wisdom."

Fourth Patriarch: Dao xin

Dao xin, of the Sima family, revolutionized Zen by establishing a monastery on Double Peak Mountain. Known for rejecting an imperial summons, he focused on developing the Zen school. His pagoda, named "Vairocana," remains a symbol of his dedication. Dao xin is remembered for his transformative impact on Zen Buddhism.

Fifth Patriarch: Hongren

Hongren introduced the "Diamond Sutra" as a primary Zen text, replacing the "Lankavatara Sutra." His pivotal act of transmitting the Dharma to Hui neng marked the division of Zen into Southern and Northern schools. His teachings emphasize sudden enlightenment, and his legacy continues through disciples who compiled his work, "Treatise on the Supreme Vehicle."

Sixth Patriarch: Hui neng

Born into poverty, Hui neng rose to prominence after hearing the "Diamond Sutra." Acknowledged by Hongren for his profound potential, Hui neng was secretly given the robe and bowl. His philosophy centered on sudden enlightenment, a hallmark of Southern Zen. "The Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch" remains a cornerstone of Zen teachings. Hui neng’s contributions solidified his status as one of the greatest patriarchs.

The Five Petals of Zen

Bodhidharma envisioned Zen flourishing through "five petals." These represent the Five Houses of Zen: Guiyang, Linji, Yunmen, Caodong, and Fayan. These schools stem from Hui neng’s lineage and showcase diverse approaches to Zen.