Definition
Reading: Nansen Fugan / Reading (ZH): Nánquán Pǔyuàn
南泉普願 (Nanquan Puyuan) is a Chinese monk during the Tang Dynasty. In Japanese, his name is read as "Nansen Fugan." Early in his life, he traveled to various centers of learning and devoted himself to studying Buddhist doctrines and theories. Later, he abandoned theoretical study and joined the master Mazu Daoyi. Together with Baizhang Huaihai and Nanyuan Zhizang, he dedicated himself to the practice of Zen. His most famous disciple was Zhaozhou Congshen.
Q&A
- Q: Why are Nanquan Puyuan, Baizhang Huaihai, and Nanyuan Zhizang often mentioned together?
- A: Because these three were known as the "Three Great Masters" under the teacher Mazu. They practiced Zen together and played a decisive role in the development of later Zen Buddhism as both rivals and comrades. They were honorably referred to as "三大士角立" (sandaisikakuryu,The Three Great Masters Standing Firm Together).
