Linjis

Linjis are adherents of the Linji school of Chan Buddhism, named after the Tang dynasty master Linji Yixuan (9th century). The Linji lineage became a major stream of Chinese Chan and, through transmission to Japan, is known there as the Rinzai school of Zen. The term Linji may refer to practitioners, teachers, or temples associated with this lineage.

Origins and development: Linji Yixuan is traditionally regarded as the founder; his teaching emphasized direct, experiential awakening through abrupt dialogue, paradox, or confrontational instruction designed to disrupt ordinary thinking. After his death, the lineage spread across China, influencing other East Asian Zen lineages and giving rise to several sub-lineages within Linji.

Practice and methods: Linji practice centers on meditation supplemented by koan-like dialogues, public instruction, and private sanzen with a teacher. The aim is direct insight into true nature, rather than scholarly study, with emphasis on teacher-student transmission of the Dharma.

Contemporary presence: Linji-derived lineages remain active in China, Taiwan, Korea, and Vietnam, and in Japan as part of Rinzai Zen. Practices vary by temple, but koan study, direct pointing to mind, and awakening in this life are common across lineages.