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Transformation of a Bodhisattva,
Footsteps of an Ascetic Monk
Early l960’s: Early Years in America
The Master showed San Francisco disciples the document titled "Treasury of the Orthodox Dharma Eye: The Source of Buddhas and Patriarchs," a transmission certificate of the Wei-yang lineage. The Venerable Master Hsu Yun sent this certificate to the Master (who was residing in Hong Kong) in May of l956. Elder Master Yun's letter, which accompanied the document says, "You, Venerable One, have concern for the preservation of the Dharma and for the continuation of the wisdom-life of the Buddhas and Patriarchs. I am sending you the Source, the inheritance of the Patriarchs' pulse, the Patriarchs' Way. Entrusted to you, it will prosper. This is my hope." The document bears this certification:
Transmitter of the Wei-yang Orthodox Lineage, the Elder Te-ch'ing Hsu-yun now bequeaths the Treasury of the Orthodox Dharma Eye upon the ninth generation, Dhyana cultivator Hsuan-hua To-lun, to be personally protected and maintained by him.
The above photo shows the incense-burn offering on the Master's chest in the shape of the character "Wan" meaning "myriad," which is used in Buddhism to represent the Buddhas' myriad virtues.
l960's San Francisco
The Master spoke the Dharma and lectured on Mahayana Sutras all during his first six years in the United States, even though he was in semi-seclusion during that time.
