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Jizang

Type Figure Region China Time 549–623 Also known as Jizang、嘉祥大师、三论宗大师、吉藏法师

Jizang (549–623) was an eminent monk of the Sui-Tang transition and the great systematizer of China's Three Treatise school, known as Master Jiaxiang…

Timeline

  1. 549–564Jinling (Jiankang) · YangzhouJizang was born in Jinling; his father was an immigrant from Parthia (the Western Regions) who practiced Buddhism. At seven Jizang accompanied his father to meet Master Falang, was immediately taken as a disciple, and was ordained at Xinghuang Temple. Gifted and precocious, he could lecture on sutras while still a youth and was deeply appreciated by Falang.
  2. 564–597Xinghuang Temple, Jinling · YangzhouJizang systematically studied the Three Treatises—Zhong Lun, Shi'er Men Lun and Bai Lun—with Falang, along with Mahayana scriptures such as the Great Perfection of Wisdom Sutra and the Nirvana Sutra. After Falang's passing Jizang inherited his teaching seat, opened lectures widely, and had many disciples, establishing the standing of Three Treatise learning in the south, corresponding in his era with Zhiyi of Tiantai.
  3. 597–623Chang'an · ShaanxiAfter the Sui unification Jizang went north to Chang'an and took up residence at Jiaxiang Temple, where he was called 'Master Jiaxiang.' There he completed his major works Sanlun Xuanyi, Dasheng Xuanlun, Fahua Xuanyi and others, forming a complete Three Treatise system. After the Tang dynasty was established he continued to enjoy patronage, passing away in Chang'an in the sixth year of Wude (623) at the age of seventy-five.

Sources