THE CAODONG SCHOOL IN TONKIN AND COCHINCHINA: A COMPARATIVE PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

The Caodong school from China was transmitted to Vietnam in the late 17^th century through two lineages: one in Tonkin, represented by Vietnamese Zen master Thong Giac Thuy Nguyet, and the other in Cochinchina, represented by Chinese Zen master Shilian Dashan. Both lineages originated in the Caodong school in China during the Ming-Qing period and share several similarities, including the dual cultivation of Zen and Pure Land, close ties to feudal governments, the harmonization of Buddhism and Confucianism, myth-based narratives, and an emphasis on precepts. However, they also differ in practice methods, scope of influence, temperament, and transmission lineage. Using an interdisciplinary approach, document analysis, and comparative methods, this study aims to clarify and systematize these similarities and differences while explaining the underlying causes.