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Who were some of the most influential Zen masters throughout history and what were their teachings?

Millard Kimmitt

Well, I'm not an expert on the subject, but I've done some research and talked to some of my friends who practice Zen and here's what I've learned.

One of the most influential Zen masters in history is Bodhidharma. He is believed to have been a Buddhist monk who traveled from India to China in the 5th century CE. He is credited with bringing meditation and the practice of Zen to China. Bodhidharma's teachings emphasized cultivating inner strength and the ability to see the true nature of reality.

Another important Zen master is Dogen. He was a Japanese monk who lived in the 13th century. Dogen is known for his teachings on the importance of meditation and the practice of non-duality. He believed that enlightenment was not something that could be sought after, but rather it was a state of being that arose naturally when one was fully present in the moment.

There's also a Zen master called Hakuin, who lived in Japan in the 18th century. Hakuin emphasized the importance of intense practice and the use of koans (paradoxical riddles or questions) to help students reach a state of enlightenment. He is credited with reviving the practice of Zen meditation in Japan.

Another Zen master who is often cited as influential is Taizan Maezumi. Maezumi was a Japanese-American who founded the White Plum Asanga, a network of Zen centers in North America. Maezumi's teachings emphasized the importance of integrating meditation practice with everyday life and relationships. He believed that the practice of Zen was not just about sitting on a cushion, but also about living a life of compassion and kindness towards others.

There are many other Zen masters throughout history who have had a major impact on the development of Zen as a practice and philosophy. Each master had their own unique approach to teaching and understanding Zen, but they all shared a commitment to helping their students cultivate greater awareness and understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Overall, I think that the teachings of Zen masters throughout history have had a profound impact on many people's lives. Their teachings provide a path towards greater awareness, compassion, and a deeper understanding of the nature of reality. Whether you practice Zen yourself or are just interested in learning more about it, I would highly recommend reading some of the works of these influential Zen masters.