Hsin Hsin Ming, also known as Verses on the Faith-Mind, is a foundational Zen Buddhist poem attributed to Jianzhi Sengcan, the Third Patriarch of Chan Buddhism. Written in the 6th century, it is among the earliest and most influential Zen texts, emphasizing non-duality, acceptance, and the nature of mind.
Sengcan, who lived during the Sui Dynasty, succeeded Dazu Huike as Chan Buddhism’s third patriarch. Little is known about his life, but his teachings profoundly shaped Zen thought. Hsin Hsin Ming explores detachment, inner peace, and unity, urging practitioners to transcend opposites and embrace the Way without resistance.
The poem has been widely studied and translated, with notable editions including Hsin Hsin Ming: The Book of Nothing (1983,) Hsin Hsin Ming (1973,) and Hsin-Hsin Ming (2001,) offering insights into Zen practice and philosophy.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Hsin Hsin Ming
What one likes and what one dislikes is the disease of the mind.
—Hsin Hsin Ming
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