Sesson Yūbai

Place: Japan

Born: 1290

Death: 1347

Biography:

Sesson Yūbai, a Japanese Zen Buddhist monk and poet, is considered one of the most important poets of the Five Mountains. Born in 1290, Yūbai was a prominent figure in the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. His life and work are a testament to the enduring influence of Zen philosophy on Japanese art and culture.

Early Life and Training

Yūbai began his studies under Chinese master Issan Ichinei in Japan, before moving to China where he continued his training with various teachers. He spent over twenty years in China, from 1307 to 1329, during which time he was imprisoned in Chang'an for a period. This experience had a profound impact on his poetry and worldview.

Artistic Style and Influences

Yūbai's poetry is characterized by its simplicity, clarity, and depth. His work is influenced by the Zen emphasis on meditation, intuition, and direct experience. The Musō Soseki painting, "Abiding Nowhere, the Awakened Mind Arises," held at the Tokugawa Art Museum, showcases this style. Yūbai's own poetry, as seen in his collection of 242 poems, Bingatshū, reflects his experiences and insights gained during his time in China.

Notable Works and Legacy

Yūbai's legacy extends beyond his poetry to his role as a founder of several provincial Buddhist temple-monasteries in Japan. The Hōun-ji and Hōrin-ji temples, both located in Harima, Hyōgo, are notable examples of his contributions to Japanese Zen Buddhism. His followers, including Akamatsu Norimura and Akamatsu Norisuke, continued his work, ensuring the spread of Zen philosophy throughout Japan. Zen Art Movement has had a profound influence on various forms of art, with its emphasis on meditation, intuition, and simplicity. The Zen Art Movement is characterized by its unique style, which aims to express the true nature of reality.

• Sakugen Shūryō was a Japanese Zen Buddhist monk and diplomat who left an indelible mark on the world of art with his meticulously crafted calligraphic works.
• The Passage from the Sutra of Perfect Enlightenment is a remarkable painting created by the renowned Zen scholar-poet monk, Zekkai Chūshin.
• The Buddhism in Japan has a long and complex history, with various sects and schools emerging over the centuries.

In conclusion, Sesson Yūbai's life and work serve as a testament to the enduring influence of Zen philosophy on Japanese art and culture. His poetry and legacy continue to inspire artists and scholars today, offering a profound and enduring vision of reality. The Sesson Yūbai page on Wikioo.org provides further insight into his life and work, showcasing the beauty and elegance of Zen art.