Master Hsu Yun or Xuyun  (Chinese: 虚云; - name meaning "Empty Cloud) born 5 September 1840 – 13 October 1959  was a renowned Chinese Chan Buddhist master and one of the most influential Buddhist teachers of the 19th and 20th centuries. According to Richard Hunn, Master Hsu is "Universally regarded as the most outstanding Buddhist of the Chinese order in the modern era."   When Xuyun was seventeen, he attempted to flee home to Mount Heng to become a monk without his family's permission. On a winding mountain path he encountered envoys sent by his uncle to intercept and escort him back. His aspiration was not realized and he was reproved and brought back home. His father formally arranged brides for him, and his marriage was completed. Although they lived together, Xuyun did not have sexual contact with his wives. Moreover, he extensively explained the dharma to the women so that they too would practice Buddhism. He left them this profound teaching "The Song of the Skinbag" which he wrote at the age of 19. Several years later Maser Hsu discovered that his two former wives had both ordained as bhikshunis (nuns). 🔆 These podcasts are not monetized. If you benefit from these podcasts and would like to support our nun's hermitage, there are two options to donate - via Paypal using this email address: vivekahermitage@gmail.com with PayPal or using this direct link: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/VivekaHermitage or become at Patron at: https://www.patreon.com/jayasara 🙏 May whatever goodness arises from these readings/offerings be for the benefit of all sentient beings.