Stone Carving of the "Regulations of the World"

Stone Carving of the "Regulations of the World"

The Stone Carving of the "Regulations of the World" is a cultural relic protected at the provincial level in Jiangxi Province.

The Zen Master Tang Huaihai studied under Mazu Daoyi, later residing at Baizhang Temple in Fengxin, where he taught the common rules observed by Zen Buddhist monasteries known as the "Chan Monastery Regulations," also called the "Chan Gate Code." Commonly referred to as the "Baizhang Regulations," they established the monastic hierarchy, rituals, and other systems for Zen temples.

Ten administrative divisions were set up, each managing specific duties; monks were required to engage in agricultural work while pursuing spiritual practice, supporting themselves through their own labor — "no work, no food" — living a life of farming and meditation. The original "Baizhang Regulations" had been lost by the early Song Dynasty. Later temples developed their own versions of the regulations, which varied in content. In 1338, Zen Master Dezui referenced various regulations from the Tang and Song dynasties and, invoking the authority of Baizhang, compiled the "Imperially Commissioned Revised Baizhang Regulations," which is the version of the "Baizhang Regulations" known and used today. It consists of eight volumes and nine chapters: 1) Ceremonies, 2) Gratitude, 3) Ancestral Worship, 4) Reverence for Founders, 5) Abbey Leadership, 6) Administrative Staff, 7) Monastic Community, 8) Seniority Records, and 9) Ritual Instruments. Each chapter provides detailed guidelines on the organizational structure, religious activities, and daily life within the monastic community.

The significance of the "Baizhang Regulations" lies in two main aspects: first, it established a shared practice system and code of conduct for Zen monasteries; second, it addressed the economic issues essential to the communal life of the monastic community.

Today, behind the temple, the stone carving of the words “Regulations of the World,” brushed in Liu-style calligraphy, has been freshly painted in red. It is surrounded by stainless-steel railings, and a clear spring flows nearby, nourishing this solemn and sacred Buddhist site.

Further Reading:

· First Batch of Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Units in Jiangxi Province