Zen Buddhism, also known as Chan Buddhism, is a school of Mahayana Buddhism that originated in China. It is characterized by its emphasis on direct experience and meditation as a means to attain enlightenment.
Zen Buddhism places great importance on the concept of “awakening” or “enlightenment” and the realization of one’s true nature.
The Fifth Ancestor of Zen Buddhism in China, Hongren (?????????, asked his followers to tell him what they think one’s true nature (Buddha-nature) is. He told them he would choose his successor, i.e., Sixth Ancestor of Zen Buddhism, based on their answers