Hung-chih Cheng-chueh (1091–1157 CE) was an influential Chinese Chan Buddhist monk and poet. He is particularly associated with ‘silent illumination’ chan, which may be glimpsed in this poem.
Silently and serenely one forgets all words;
Clearly and vividly That appears.
When one realizes it, it is vast and without edges;
In its Essence, one is clearly aware.
Singularly reflecting is this bright awareness,
Full of wonder is this pure reflection.
Dew and moon,
Stars and streams,
Snow on pine trees,
And clouds hovering on the mountain peaks.
In this reflection all intentional efforts vanish.
Serenity is the final word of all the teachings;
Reflection is the response to all manifestations.