Ryokan Zen Monk Poet of Japan

by Ryōkan (Translator)

English, Japanese (translation)

Genres: Poetry

126 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 1977

About the author

Ryōkan Taigu (1758–1831) was a quiet and eccentric Sōtō Zen Buddhist monk who lived much of his life as a hermit. Ryōkan is remembered for his poetry and calligraphy, which present the essence of Zen life.

Ryōkan lived a very simple, pure life, and stories about his kindness and generosity abound. However, even though he lived his simple and pure life, he also displayed characteristics that under normal circumstances would be out of line for a normal monk.