Description
An introduction to one of the greatest classics of Zen literature. A4 PDF available to download immediately following purchase.
This edition of The Blue Cliff Record offers readers a way into the one hundred kōans first compiled in 12th-century China by Yuanwu Keqin. Each kōan presents a vivid encounter between Zen masters and their students – stories that cut through logic and point directly to awakening.
This introduction will help you get started with kōans, answering questions such as:
✓ What is a kōan, and why are they central to Zen practice?
✓ How do stories like “Zhaozhou’s Dog” or “Three Pounds of Hemp” open the mind beyond words?
✓ What did Yuanwu add in his Commentaries and Verses that makes this collection unique?
✓ How can kōans be used today for meditation and reflection?
✓ … and more.
The guide also provides a glossary of names and concepts, plus suggestions for further reading.
Translated and annotated by Zen Library, this edition presents The Blue Cliff Record in clear, contemporary English, while retaining the structure of the classic work. It is designed for both newcomers to Zen and those wishing to deepen their practice.
| Criteria | Score | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Clarity & Accessibility | 66% | Classical texture and capping verses can be dense, even with clear notes. |
| Depth & Insight | 95% | Rich commentarial strata invite deep cuts and multiple angles. |
| Practical & Inspirational Value | 83% | Inspiring for seasoned practice; guidance is indirect and vigorous. |
| Overall Score | 81% |
