Buddhist Reading of the Hanshan Poems: A Journey into the Heart of Zen

On Cold Mountain: A Buddhist Reading of the Hanshan Poems (China Program Books)

by Sacha Guitry

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
Paperback	:	146 pages
Item Weight	:	7.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.85 x 0.37 x 8.27 inches
File size	:	4028 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	327 pages

FREE

The Hanshan poems, a collection of enigmatic and insightful verses attributed to the enigmatic hermit poet Hanshan, have captivated readers for centuries with their profound Buddhist teachings and their ability to evoke a sense of spiritual awakening.

Hanshan, whose name means "Cold Mountain," is said to have lived in a cave on Cold Mountain in China during the Tang dynasty. Little is known about his life, but his poems have become a beloved part of Buddhist literature, and they have been translated into many languages.

The Hanshan poems are often characterized by their simplicity and their use of everyday language. However, beneath their simple exterior lies a profound understanding of Buddhist teachings, particularly the teachings of Zen Buddhism.

Zen Buddhism is a school of Buddhism that emphasizes the importance of meditation and direct experience over scriptural study and ritual. Zen masters often use enigmatic koans, or riddles, to help their students to achieve a state of enlightenment.

The Hanshan poems can be seen as a kind of koan. They are full of paradoxes and contradictions, and they often defy easy interpretation. However, if we are willing to let go of our preconceptions and open our hearts and minds, the Hanshan poems can lead us to a deeper understanding of the nature of reality and our place in it.

One of the central themes of the Hanshan poems is the importance of letting go. Hanshan writes:

Let go of everything,
And you will find everything.
Let go of desire,
And you will find contentment.
Let go of self,
And you will find enlightenment.

This teaching is echoed in the Zen tradition, which emphasizes the importance of letting go of attachments in order to achieve enlightenment.

Another important theme in the Hanshan poems is the importance of living in the present moment. Hanshan writes:

Do not dwell on the past,
Do not worry about the future,
Live in the present moment,
And you will find peace.

This teaching is also echoed in the Zen tradition, which emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and living in the present moment.

The Hanshan poems are a rich source of wisdom and inspiration. They can help us to let go of our attachments, live in the present moment, and find peace and enlightenment.

If you are interested in exploring the Hanshan poems further, there are many resources available online. You can find translations of the poems, commentaries, and discussions. You can also find recordings of the poems being read aloud.

May the Hanshan poems bring you peace, joy, and enlightenment.

Further Reading

• Cold Mountain Poems by Hanshan, translated by Red Pine
• Hanshan: Cold Mountain's Companion by John Daido Loori
• Hanshan: Cold Mountain Zen Poetry from Lion's Roar

On Cold Mountain: A Buddhist Reading of the Hanshan Poems (China Program Books)

by Sacha Guitry

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
Paperback	:	146 pages
Item Weight	:	7.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.85 x 0.37 x 8.27 inches
File size	:	4028 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	327 pages

FREE