The Undying Lamp of Zen: The Testament of Zen Master Torei

The Undying Lamp of Zen is a pure and powerfuldistillation of Zen doctrine and practice written by Torei Enji(1721–1792), a Zen master and artist. Torei was best known as oneof two "genius assistants" to Hakuin Ekaku, a towering figure inZen Buddhism who revitalized the Rinzai school, which focuses onkoan practice. Torei was responsible for much of the advanced workof Hakuin's later disciples and also helped systemize Hakuin's Zenteachings. The Undying Lamp of Zen includes a range ofprinciples and practices, from the most elementary to the mostadvanced. It is an indispensable aid to the practice of Rinzai Zen,while also providing tested traditional techniques for publicaccess to Zen experience.Premier translator Thomas Cleary provides a thoroughintroduction and illuminating footnotes throughout, and hismasterful translation lets Torei's distinctive voice shine through;Torei is energetic, no-nonsense, and full of personality. No otherEnglish translations of this classic are available and Zenafficionados will want to add this to their collection.