Abstract

Zen Master Giac Hai (c. 1023–1138) was a prominent figure in Vietnamese Buddhism during the Ly dynasty. He belonged to the tenth generation of the Vo Ngon Thong Zen school and was also associated with the Thao Duong Zen school. This study examines Giac Hai’s Zen thought, analyzes the principal characteristics and content of his system of thought, and evaluates his role in the development of Vietnamese Buddhism under the Ly dynasty. Based on historical records, inscriptions, and ancient sources, the findings indicate that Giac Hai made significant contributions to shaping and developing the distinctive characteristics of Vietnamese Zen Buddhism by harmoniously integrating Buddhist traditions with indigenous culture.

Keywords: Buddhism during the Ly dynasty, Thien Uyen Tap Anh, Vo Ngon Thong Zen school, Zen Master Giac Hai, Zen thought.