Ejō

1198–1280

1 standalone book

Koun Ejō (1198–1280) was a Japanese Buddhist monk who served as the second patriarch of the Sōtō school of Zen Buddhism during the Kamakura period. He was initially a disciple of the Darumashū sect before studying under Dōgen, the founder of the Sōtō school, and later became its spiritual successor. Ejō is known for recording Dōgen's informal talks in the Shōbōgenzō Zuimonki and for his role in the Denkōroku, though he faced challenges in leading the Eihei-ji monastery after Dōgen's death. He transmitted the dharma to several disciples, but his failure to name a clear heir led to a power struggle within the community.

Born

1198