Inquiry into the Genesis and Practice of Silent Illumination Chan (Zen)
by Guo Gu
“Silent Illumination,” or mozhao, is often associated with the Caodong (Jp. Soto) School of Chan (Jp. Zen), and specifically with master Hongzhi Zhengjue (1091-1157). The term Silent Illumination is a metaphor for the inseparability of the empty nature of mind and its function. The word “silent” refers to the fact that mind, which is the precursor to all experience, is inherently empty and it is from emptiness that all things arise. We are originally free from all constructs and narratives. When we fully understand the nature of mind and gain insight, we see that all things are impermanent, intimately connected and have no abidance. This connection with others is the realization and function of no-self, selflessness. In this talk, Guo Gu goes into detail in elaborating and explaining the nature and value of this practice.
