42 Chih-Sheng, Victorious Sagacity

high-definition creative commons posters based on Kathryn Ann Tsai’s translation of Pi-chiu-ni chuan entitled, Lives of the Nuns.

A biographical account of the Buddhist nun Chih-sheng, detailing her life from a young age in the fifth century, when she expressed a profound desire to become a nun despite her grandmother’s initial reluctance. The narrative describes her devotion to monastic life, including her diligent study of scriptures, writing commentaries, and maintaining her purity amidst social and political turmoil. Chih-sheng’s significant interactions with imperial figures, such as the heir apparent Wen-hui, highlight her high standing and influence, with the text mentioning her giving lectures at the palace and earning deep respect from the imperial family. The source also recounts specific events, such as a monastery robbery and her disciplinary response, before concluding with a description of her death at age sixty-six and her honourable burial. Overall, the life presents Chih-sheng as a highly revered, sagacious figure who founded a convent and dedicated her life to Buddhist practice and teaching.

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