Chan Buddhism
China, from the early medieval period
Its lineages emphasise meditation, awakening, and practices of transmission.
Historical context
Chan took shape in medieval China through communities, teaching texts, and lineage narratives. Practices circulated in monastic and lay settings.
Overview
A teaching dialogue can disrupt a habitual way of framing a question. Its function is understood through the training and transmission relationship in which it is used.
Main claims
Meditation, awakening, and transmission form part of Chan doctrinal and practical life.
Debates and nuances
Transmission narratives are doctrinal sources whose historical function requires critical scrutiny.
This entry provides educational context.