Shenhui

Shenhui was a prominent Zen Buddhist teacher in 10th-century China who played a key role in shaping the Hongzhou school of Zen. He emphasized the importance of sudden enlightenment—an immediate, direct realization of one’s true nature—over gradual practice. Shenhui also promoted the use of Koans (paradoxical questions) to provoke insight. His teachings helped distinguish his school from others and fostered focused meditation practices. Overall, Shenhui's work contributed significantly to the development of Zen Buddhism, emphasizing direct experience and insight as essential to spiritual awakening.