Customer Reviews

Three Zen Masters: Ikkyu, Hakuin, Ryokan (Kodansha Biographies)

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This slim volume is in many ways a great introduction to Zen thinking through profiles of three great masters. It is a wonderful combination of historical examination and recollection of stories about the lives of these three. The selection of the figures is excellent as you see a broad sweep of different styles of living and practicing Zen Buddhism. Also, the three are each in their own way extremely influential, so it is good to understand the roles of the individuals in the overall development of Zen Buddhist religious practice. Finally, the stories are just plain entertaining, filled with humor, insight, wry observation, and wisdom. A very enjoyable read.

This small volume does a wonderful job at introducing us to three of the wildest, most fascinating Zen masters. The lifestories of Ikkyu and Ryokan, in particular, are almost too good to be true. This book makes Zen comes to life in a real, down to earth kind of way. Wonderful work!