A study of the Huayan Chan 華嚴禪 thought

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article delves into the development of Huayan Chan through three distinct periods – its emergence, flourishing and continuation – while analysing its characteristics in the history of Chinese Buddhism. In its inception, Huayan Chan originated within the Southern school of Chan. Subsequently, the five schools of Chan that followed exhibited varying degrees of consideration for Huayan teachings. They employed Huayan’s perspectives on ‘principle’ (li 理) and ‘phenomena’ (shi 事) in special ways, marking a significant developmental phase in the Huayan Chan trend. As time progressed, particularly during the late Ming dynasty, the integration of Chan and Huayan teachings by the four great masters facilitated a comprehensive amalgamation of Huayan with diverse Buddhist schools. By exploring the historical context of Huayan Chan, this article aims to provide a definition: Huayan Chan refers to a mode in which figures associated with Chan Buddhism utilize Huayan thought as a theoretical model or methodology to interpret their teachings and practices. It represents a fusion of Huayan doctrinal principles with Chan meditation practices, and the gradual cultivation of Huayan with the sudden enlightenment of Chan, thereby enhancing Chan meditation in a manner, which distinguishes it from traditional Chan Buddhism.