Seung Sahn
Seung Sahn: A Zen Master's Journey
Full Name and Common Aliases
Seung Sahn, born Kihl-son (also spelled as Kyeong-mun), was a Korean Zen master known for his unconventional teaching style and emphasis on "don't know" mind. He was often referred to by his students and followers as the "Zen Master who doesn't teach Zen."
Birth and Death Dates
Seung Sahn was born on February 8, 1927, in Cheongju, Korea, and passed away on December 30, 2013.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Korean national, Zen master, teacher, and author.
Early Life and Background
Seung Sahn's early life was marked by hardship and turmoil. During World War II, his family fled to the countryside, where he spent much of his childhood in poverty and isolation. His father died when Seung Sahn was just a young boy, and he was raised by his mother, who instilled in him a strong spiritual foundation through her Buddhist practices.
In his teenage years, Seung Sahn began to study Buddhism formally, eventually receiving ordination at the age of 19. He went on to study with several prominent Zen masters, including Master Hye-chofong, who became his primary teacher and mentor.
Major Accomplishments
Seung Sahn's most significant accomplishment was establishing the Kwan Um School of Zen in the United States, which remains one of the largest and most influential Zen communities worldwide. Under his guidance, the school has grown to include over 100 temples and dharma centers across North America.
He also wrote several books on Zen philosophy and practice, including "Only Don't Know" and "Zen Is Not a Philosophy." These works have been widely read and studied by Zen practitioners and scholars alike, offering insights into the nature of reality, consciousness, and the human experience.
Notable Works or Actions
Seung Sahn's teaching style was characterized by his emphasis on direct transmission and non-conceptual understanding. He encouraged students to explore their own experiences and perceptions, rather than relying on preconceived notions or intellectual understanding. This approach led to the development of a unique form of Zen practice that integrated elements from various traditions.
One of Seung Sahn's most notable works is his book "Only Don't Know," which offers practical guidance for those seeking to cultivate a deeper understanding of Zen principles and practices. The book provides an accessible introduction to key concepts such as "don't know" mind, the importance of direct transmission, and the role of meditation in realizing one's true nature.
Impact and Legacy
Seung Sahn's impact on modern Western Buddhism cannot be overstated. He played a pivotal role in introducing Zen teachings to the United States and Europe, paving the way for a new generation of Zen practitioners. His emphasis on direct transmission and non-conceptual understanding has influenced countless students and teachers across the globe.
Through his writing, teaching, and community-building efforts, Seung Sahn helped to create a more inclusive and accessible approach to Zen practice. He encouraged students from diverse backgrounds to explore their own experiences and perceptions, rather than relying solely on traditional teachings or authority figures.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Seung Sahn is widely quoted and remembered for his insightful and often provocative statements on the nature of reality, consciousness, and human experience. His emphasis on "don't know" mind – an attitude that encourages individuals to approach life with openness, curiosity, and non-judgmental awareness – has resonated deeply with many practitioners.
His commitment to direct transmission and non-conceptual understanding has inspired a new generation of Zen students and teachers to explore the depths of their own experiences and perceptions. As a result, Seung Sahn's teachings continue to influence Buddhist practice and education worldwide, offering a unique and inclusive approach to spiritual growth and self-discovery.
Quotes by Seung Sahn
This is the whole point of the Heart Sutra. From moment to moment, when you are doing something, just do.
Zen means putting it all down, cutting off all thinking, and returning to your pure and clear original nature.
You can fix your body, your heart, your diabetes. In Korea, China, and India, there are people who do yoga. They go to the mountains and do breath-in, breath-out meditation. They can live 500 years and not get sick. Keeping their bodies for a long time is possible; even flying in the sky is possible.
Meditation means keeping one mind. You must understand - what is life? What is death? If you keep one mind, there is no life, no death. Then if you die tomorrow, no problem; if you die in five minutes, no problem.
Perceiving your own voice means perceiving your true self or nature. When you and the sound become one, you don't hear the sound; you are the sound.
Correct meditation means correctly understanding your situation moment by moment - what are you doing now? Only do it! Then, each action is complete; each action is enough. Then no thinking, so each moment I can perceive everything just like this.
