I will speak on the Heart Sutra from the Chan point of view. First, I will draw upon my knowledge of Buddhadharma from a lifetime of study, practice, and experience as a Buddhist scholar, monk, and teacher. I do not claim to have the most correct or profound understanding of this or any other Buddhist text, but I am confident that my interpretation does not stray from the Buddhadharma. Second, Chan encourages us to experience the Dharma directly through meditation and in daily life. I am therefore presenting the sutra as a series of contemplation methods. In this way, reading the Heart Sutra becomes more than just an intellectual exercise; it becomes a method of practice by which one can reveal the fundamental wisdom inherent within each of us. As such, it exemplifies the second of the three refuges, “I take refuge in Dharma.” Hence, whether you want to understand Buddhist concepts better, or to deepen and widen your meditative practice, I hope this commentary on the Heart Sutra will satisfy your needs. Please enjoy this offering and may it be of service.

Master Sheng-yen

New York City, 2001