Top 3 Quotes & Sayings by Shitou Xiqian

Explore popular quotes and sayings by Shitou Xiqian.
Last updated on April 16, 2025.
Shitou Xiqian

Shítóu Xīqiān (700-790) was an 8th-century Chinese Chán (Zen) Buddhist teacher and author. All existing branches of Zen throughout the world are said to descend either from Shitou Xiqian or from his contemporary Mazu Daoyi.

Light and dark are relative to one another like forward and backward steps. — © Shitou Xiqian
Light and dark are relative to one another like forward and backward steps.
The vast sky is not hindered by the floating clouds.
Let go of hundreds of years and relax completely. Open your hands and walk, innocent. Thousands of words, myriad interpretations, are only to free you from obstructions. If you want to know the undying person in the hut, don't separate from this skin bag here and now.
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