For the masters of the Chan tradition, poetry was a form of creative expression, but even more than that, it was a primary vehicle for teaching.

Here a modern master presents ten teaching poems from the ancient masters, with illuminating commentary.

"These poems flow directly from the minds of the enlightened Chan masters," Master Sheng Yen says. "We get a glimpse into their experience at the time of, and after, their enlightenment. It is my hope that this collection of poems will give those who are interested in the practice a new way of looking at Chan."