02 Ling-shou, A Founders Journey
high-definition creative commons posters based on Kathryn Ann Tsai’s translation of Pi-chiu-ni chuan entitled, Lives of the Nuns.
The story of the nun An Ling-shou, whose family was originally from Tung-huan, it details her early life, including her decision to devote herself to a spiritual path despite her father’s initial resistance. The account explains that An Ling-shou was exceptionally intelligent and was already immersed in Buddhist teachings, preferring a secluded life to worldly pleasures. A significant part of the narrative focuses on a conversation with her father, Hsü Ch’ung, where she argues that cultivating the Way would free her parents from suffering and benefit all living beings. Hsü Ch’ung eventually consults a monk and allows his daughter to become a nun, with the monk predicting that she would bring her family great honour and guide others to Nirvāṇa. The source concludes by mentioning that An Ling-shou established a convent and was widely respected for her wisdom and piety, even having her father honoured by a later emperor.
Photographs by Anandajoti Bhikkhu
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