Huang-po

the sermons r relatively stereotypical chan stuff, tho the play w prajnaparamita/yogachara terms is kinda novel and amusing. the authors intro and commentarial annotations r annoyingly outdated, and somewhat embarrassing in light of advancements in buddhist studies/translation. the best part by far r the Q&A dialogues, since the rancor and irritation comes so clearly to the fore--its hilarious to witness such undisguised animosity bw the speaker and the audience, and see the master's show more reaction. some of the koans r also very good--the best sermon-like exposition of chan dharma in this book is imo contained in the longest so-called "koan" show less

John Blofeld's translation of Ch'an Master Huang-po may be the most significant translation of Tang dynasty Buddhism to reach western shores. Students of Dzogchen will readiy appreciate the flavor of Huang Po's direct , timeless method of teaching.Although I no longer own my original copy, I have been acquainted with this book for over three decades, first encountering it as a teenager. It remains among my favorites.

This review is not a review, but it is not no-review. No mind.

KINA