The mind as the essence of words: A linguistic philosophical analysis of the classifi cation teaching of Yongming Yanshou

Abstract

Along with the Chan s linguistic turn , the significance of sutras, which were despised and even regarded as the obstacle to complete enlightenment, became accepted by the Chan. Due to Yanshou s contributions, the principle that emphasized the diversity of teaching in terms of the relationship between meaning and expression in the Sui and Tang Dynasties has been changed into a system which stressed the importance of the root/branches relationship of the mind and words. According to Yanshou, the conflict between the Chan and doctrinal teachings is resolved by highlighting the significance of words. Yanshou s work greatly inspired the Chan s interest in words in the Song Dynasty.