Yang-shan Hui-chi

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Yang-shan Hui-chi (Jap., Kyōzan Ejaku; c.810–c.887). Ch'an/Zen master, dharma-successor (hassu) of Kuei-shan Ling-yu (see KUEI-YANG-TSUNG), and so renowned that he became known as ‘the little Śākyamuni’. His parents opposed his early inclination to become a monk until he presented them with two of his chopped-off fingers as a mark of his determination. He visited many masters, including Ma-tsu and Pai-chang, but found perfect connection with Kuei-shan. The two are regarded as co-founders of the Igyo school, with its emphasis on the ninety-seven circles of contemplation.