Oxford University Press Core Texts of the Sŏn Approach: A Compendium of Korean Sŏn (Chan) Buddhism

Jeffrey L. Broughton here offers a study and partial translation of Core Texts of the S&on Approach (S&onmun ch'waryo), an anthology of texts foundational to Korean S&on (Chan/Zen) Buddhism. Core Texts of the S&on Approach provides a convenient entr�e to two fundamental themes of Korean S&on: S&on vis-�-vis the doctrinal teachings of Buddhism (in which S&on is shown to be superior) and the huatou (i.e., phrase; Korean hwadu) method of practice-work originally popularized by the Song dynasty Chinese Chan master Dahui Zonggao. This method consists of raising to awareness or keeping an eye on the phrase, usually No (Korean mu). No mental operation whatsoever is to be performed upon the phrase. One lifts the phrase to awareness constantly, when doing quiet cross-legged sitting as well as when immersed in the noisiness of everyday life. Core Texts of the S&on Approach, which was published in Korea during the first decade of the twentieth century (the identity of the compiler is not known for certain), contains eight Chan texts by Chinese authors (two translated here) and seven S&on texts by Korean authors (three translated here), showing the organic relationship between the parent Chinese tradition and its Korean inheritor. The set of translations in this volume will give readers access to some of the key texts of the Korean branch of this influential East Asian school of Buddhism. Review This is another milestone translation, which is heartily recommended to every scholar of East Asian Buddhism. ― Lukas Pokorny, Religious Studies Review Jeffrey Broughton has produced yet another major contribution to the available literature of Chan Buddhism. This volume consists of excellent translations from an anthology of traditional Chan and Son texts that inspired an early modern revival of that traditionin Korea. Now in masterfully translated English, this outstanding collection makes the "Core Texts" of Korean Son Buddhism readily available for the careful study of this spirited tradition. ― Dale S. Wright, author of Buddhism: What Everyone Needs to Know Broughton's translations of Core Texts of the Sŏn Approach is a welcome addition to the scholarship on Chan, Son, and Zen Buddhism. His scholarly references include all the significant figures who have contributed to the rise in Son Studies in recent years. The writing style is concise, yet lucid, and conveys information in an engaging style. Broughton's explanations of key terms are masterful, reflecting the expertise of a senior scholar. His translations are very readable, while remaining faithful to the original. His introductions are extremely useful, providing key information that helps illuminate the texts translated. Highly recommended. ― Albert Welter, Head, East Asian Studies, University of Arizona Core Texts of the Sŏn Approach introduces seminal materials on the two pillars of the Korean Sŏn tradition: first, the essential convergence between the more progressive, or 'step-by-step,' teachings of Buddhist scriptural doctrine and the sudden, or 'all-at once,' approach of Sŏn meditation practice; and second, the emblematic Korean interpretation of kōan practice, the 'keeping an eye on the meditation case (hwadu). 'Broughton and Watanabe's typically meticulous translations of these texts provide illuminating insights on the distinctively Korean style of Zen training. ― Robert E. Buswell, Jr, Distinguished Professor of Buddhist Studies, Director, Center for Buddhist Studies, UCLA About the Author Jeffrey Broughton is Professor Emeritus of the Religious Studies Department at California State University, Long Beach. Jeffrey Broughton and Elise Yoko Watanabeâs previous books include The Letters of Chan Master Dahui Pujue, The Chan Whip Anthology: A Companion to Zen Practice, and The Record of Linji: A New Translation of the Linjilu in the Light of Ten Japanese Zen Commentaries.