Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significance of the book "Biyan Lu" (碧岩录), regarded as the "first book of the sect" in Zen Buddhism, highlighting its profound influence on both Chinese and Japanese Zen culture [1][2]. Group 1: Background of "Biyan Lu" - "Biyan Lu" was compiled by the Song Dynasty monk Yuanwu Keqin and his disciples, serving as a collection of Zen teachings and anecdotes [2]. - Yuanwu Keqin, born into a scholarly family, had a transformative experience that led him to pursue Zen, eventually becoming a prominent figure in the Zen community [4][5]. - His teachings emphasized the importance of understanding the essence of Zen beyond mere words, illustrated through various anecdotes and dialogues with disciples [5][7]. Group 2: Structure and Content of "Biyan Lu" - The book consists of 100 Zen koans, which are short stories or dialogues that convey deep spiritual insights and are used as teaching tools [13][15]. - Yuanwu Keqin's contributions to the text include three main components: prefaces, annotations, and commentaries that provide context and interpretation for each koan [10][11]. - The language of "Biyan Lu" is poetic and rich in imagery, making it a vital text for Zen practitioners seeking enlightenment [15]. Group 3: Influence and Legacy - "Biyan Lu" has been influential in Zen practice, often used as a primary text for meditation and understanding Zen principles [15][17]. - Despite attempts to suppress its publication due to misinterpretations, the book has persisted in its influence, with notable figures praising its depth and significance [11][13]. - The recent publication "Biyan Lu Jin Shi" aims to modernize the interpretation of the text, combining the original text with contemporary commentary and poetry [19][24].

Group 1 - The article discusses the transformation of Shaolin Temple from a dilapidated site to a commercial powerhouse under the leadership of Shi Yongxin, who expanded its influence through various business ventures [4][5][10] - The temple's economic activities have grown significantly, with the overall temple economy in 2023 nearing 90 billion yuan, projected to exceed 100 billion yuan by 2025 [14][15] - Shi Yongxin's approach to business has raised concerns about the integrity of the temple, as he has been associated with numerous controversies, including allegations of personal misconduct [12][18][22] Group 2 - The article highlights a cultural shift among younger generations, who view temple visits more as transactions rather than spiritual experiences, indicating a pragmatic approach to religious practices [34][40] - The narrative suggests that the appeal of traditional martial arts and the Shaolin brand is waning among the youth, with a preference for modern consumer brands over historical practices [40][41] - The changing dynamics in religious engagement reflect broader societal trends, where younger individuals seek emotional value and practical benefits from their experiences [37][39]

在中国浩瀚的典籍当中， 这本书也许是最独特的。 他的作者是一个不识字的樵夫， 却以口传的形式，留下了这部千古杰作。 他是一位最普通不过的平民， 尚未出家，却得到了禅宗五祖所传的祖师衣钵。 历代禅宗祖师、佛门大德的著作皆不可称"经"， 他留下的唯一著述却被后世人顶礼膜拜，尊称为"经"， 得到和佛祖一样的荣光和待遇。 他，就是被称为"肉身菩萨"的禅宗六祖——慧能大师。 他的著作就是中国佛教僧人著作中唯一被称为"经"的《六祖坛经》。 知 名 的国学大师 钱穆 ，曾经列出中国人必读的九本书，其中就包括这一部《六祖坛经》。钱穆先生甚 至把此书与《论语》《老子》放在三足鼎立的尊贵地位。他指出： 《六祖坛经》乃是中国第一部白话作 品，宋朝两代理学家之语录，也是受了此影响。依照佛门惯例，佛之金口说法始称"经"，菩萨们的祖述 则称"论"。只有慧能《坛经》却称"经"，此亦是佛门中一变例，而且是一大大变例。 复旦大学王德峰教授 在谈论《六祖坛经》时说的： 有些书是非读不可的，比如《六祖坛经》，中国人 最好的人生教科书之一，是人生必读书。读不懂没关系，但是一定要读过，完全懂不可能，但将来遇到 人生困境，这些话总会想起来。 前几年，清 ...