Zen Sōchō

Zen Sōchō (善宗) was a Japanese Buddhist monk, poet, and calligrapher of the Muromachi period (1336–1573), known for his literary and cultural contributions, particularly in the fields of renga poetry and Zen literature. He was born in 1448 and became an important disciple of the poet and monk Shōhaku, from whom he learned the art of poetic composition.

Zen Sōchō was an exponent of the Zen literary and spiritual movement, known for his ability to blend Zen philosophy with artistic expression. He played a significant role in the compilation and organization of the collection of Zen poems and aphorisms known as "Zenrin-kushū", which became an essential work for the understanding and practice of Zen in Japan.

Outside of his literary work, Zen Sōchō was actively involved in the religious and cultural life of his time, collaborating with other poets and monks to promote Zen values. He was respected for the depth of his thinking and his ability to express the complex teachings of Zen simply and clearly.

Zen Sōchō died in 1532, leaving behind a lasting impact on Zen literature and practice in Japan, being remembered as a master of the Zen word and spirit.