Seung Sahn

Date of Birth: August 1, 1927

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: November 30, 2004

Biography

Seung Sahn, also known as Seung Sahn Haeng Won, was a prominent Korean Zen master and the founder of the Kwan Um School of Zen. He was born on August 1, 1927, in Sunch’ŏn, North Korea. Seung Sahn’s journey towards becoming a Zen master began after he experienced a spiritual awakening during the Korean War. He became a monk in 1948 and underwent rigorous training in the Chogye order of Korean Buddhism. In 1972, Seung Sahn moved to the United States, where he established the Providence Zen Center in Rhode Island. Over the years, he founded more than 100 Zen centers and groups around the world, spreading his teachings on Buddhist practice and philosophy. Seung Sahn was known for his accessible teaching style, which included the use of simple language and direct, often humorous, interactions. He passed away on November 30, 2004, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of Zen Buddhism.

5 Interesting Facts about Seung Sahn

1. Seung Sahn was the first Korean Zen master to teach in the West, significantly influencing Western Zen practice.

2. He authored several books on Zen Buddhism, including “Dropping Ashes on the Buddha” and “The Compass of Zen.”

3. Seung Sahn’s teaching style often included the use of “hwadu” (Zen koans) and “kong-ans” (public cases) to challenge and enlighten his students.

4. He was known for his “just do it” philosophy, encouraging students to live in the present moment and engage fully with their practice.

5. Despite his advanced age, Seung Sahn continued to teach and travel extensively, conducting retreats and giving dharma talks until his last years.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Seung Sahn

1. “Only don’t know.”

2. “The Great Way is not difficult if you do not make distinctions.”

3. “Your mind is like a clear mirror. Just don’t make waves.”

4. “The moment you start to judge or compare, you lose the ability to see things as they are.”

5. “Put it all down. Just do it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Seung Sahn, as a Zen monk, did not accumulate personal wealth. His life’s work was dedicated to teaching and spreading Zen Buddhism rather than material gain.

Children

As a celibate monk, Seung Sahn did not have biological children. However, he considered his students and disciples as his spiritual children, providing them with guidance and support throughout his life.