SHIN JIN MEI | 信心銘 DAY ONE: Introduction
Chapter 1: Introduction to Shinjinmei - Unveiling the Wisdom of the Gem Monk
In the vast annals of history, there exist individuals who leave behind an indelible mark on the sands of time, yet remain shrouded in mystery. Such is the case with Third Patriarch Kanchi Sōsan, a figure whose life's details remain veiled, even as his profound teachings continue to resonate through the ages. Little is known about his early years - the date and location of his birth remain elusive. However, we do know that he departed from this world in the year 606 C.E., leaving behind a legacy that would shape the path of Zen Buddhism for generations to come.
It was relatively late in life, at the age of forty, that Sōsan encountered his master, Taiso Eka, the Second Zen patriarch. It was under Eka's guidance that he received the Dharma name Sōsan, meaning "Gem Monk," a name that would come to symbolize the brilliance of his teachings. For a period ranging from two to six years, Sōsan immersed himself in the profound wisdom of his master, absorbing the essence of Zen.
Following the transmission of the Dharma, Sōsan's life took a turn as he found himself entangled in a tumultuous period of Buddhist persecution. To protect the teachings and evade persecution, he sought refuge in the hidden solitudes of the Wangong and Sikong mountains, wandering incognito for a decade. During these challenging years, the seeds of his great work, Shin Jin Mei, were planted and nurtured.
Shin Jin Mei, often translated as "Faith in Mind" or "Mind of Absolute Trust," stands as a testament to Sōsan's unwavering commitment to Zen in the face of the growing popularity of Pure Land Buddhism. At the core of Zen lies the unshakable belief that Buddha and Mind are one - an intrinsic unity that transcends the need for faith in outward Buddhas. As the title suggests, Shin Jin Mei extols the importance of placing absolute trust in the direct experience of the mind, unburdened by the veils of false views that obscure its inherent perfection.
The focal point of Shin Jin Mei revolves around the profound appreciation and application of the recognition of emptiness. Within its verses, the essence of the Wisdom sutras, the Avatamsaka Sutra, and the Lankavatara Sutra finds a concise and practical expression. It is as if Shin Jin Mei serves as a Zen primer, sublime in its depth yet accessible in its wisdom.
In a world that often spins in chaos and complexity, Shin Jin Mei offers a beacon of clarity and insight. As we delve into the verses penned by the Gem Monk, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and awakening, guided by the luminous path of Zen. Throughout this book, we will explore the timeless wisdom of Shin Jin Mei, seeking to unravel its profound teachings and integrate them into our daily lives.
In the following chapters, we will delve deeper into the verses of Shin Jin Mei, contemplating the profound truths it reveals. We will immerse ourselves in the essence of emptiness, explore the interconnectedness of all phenomena, and embrace the direct experience of mind. The words of the Gem Monk will serve as a constant reminder that the path to realization lies not in the external, but in the very fabric of our own being - a jewel waiting to be uncovered, sparkling with the brilliance of absolute trust.
