Fifth Patriarch

The Fifth Patriarch refers to Hongren (601–674), a prominent Buddhist monk in Chinese history. He was the fifth in a line of spiritual leaders (patriarchs) who helped shape Chinese Chan Buddhism, which emphasizes meditation and direct insight into one’s nature. Hongren’s teachings focused on the importance of practice and mind that is free from attachment. He played a key role in developing the tradition’s emphasis on sudden enlightenment and the transmission of teachings from master to disciple. As a patriarch, he’s regarded as an influential figure who helped establish Chan Buddhism’s foundations in China.