Readings of the Gateless Barrier

The essays collected here—as lucid as they are learned—open up one of the most enigmatic works of religious literature for readers to explore a text that is equal parts lyrical, intriguing, infuriating, and funny. Readings of the Gateless Barrier is to be studied and savored. -- John Kieschnick, author of <i>Buddhist Historiography in China</i> This new translation of The Gateless Barrier, a classic of gong’an (public cases) literature in the Chan tradition used to train students in China, Korea, and Japan, is supplemented by chapters written by experts that provide historical, philosophical, and literary context. Readings of the Gateless Barrier is essential reading for anyone who wishes to learn about gong’an. -- Chun-fang Yu, author of <i>Chinese Buddhism: A Thematic History</i> Readings of the Gateless Barrier brings together the diverse voices of critical historians and contemporary practitioners, joined by a new, annotated translation, to provide a uniquely nuanced window on the life of a work that has traversed multiple cultures and long stood at the heart of the Chan and Zen Buddhist tradition. -- Daniel B. Stevenson, author of <i>The Meaning of the Lotus Sūtra’s Course of Ease and Bliss</i> An essential companion for students exploring Chan Buddhism, Readings of the Gateless Barrier serves as both an introduction for newcomers and a clear, insightful analysis for those who already know it, enriching the journey into the heart of Chan practice. -- James A. Benn, author of <i>Burning for the Buddha</i> The Gateless Barrier is a seminal text in the Chan/Zen tradition; the readings in this book offer the insights of leading scholars, the guidance of respected teachers, and the gift of an excellent new translation. It is essential reading for anyone interested in the history, theory, and practice of this tradition. -- Benjamin Brose, author of <i>Embodying Xuanzang: The Postmortem Travels of a Buddhist Pilgrim</i>