<DIV><I>The Platform Sutra</I> occupies a central place in Zen (Ch'an) Buddhist instruction for students and spiritual seekers worldwide. It is often linked with <I>The Heart Sutra</I> and <I>The Diamond Sutra</I> to form a trio of texts that have been revered and studied for centuries. However, unlike the other sutras, which transcribe the teachings of the Buddha himself, <I>The Platform Sutra</I> presents the life and work of Hui-neng, the controversial sixth patriarch of Zen, and his understanding of the fundamentals of a spiritual and practical life. Hui-neng's instruction still matters?the seventh-century school of Direct Awakening that he founded flourishes today, continuing to influence the Rinzai and Soto schools of contemporary Zen. Red Pine offers a sensitive, straightforward, and solid translation of this vital Buddhist text. His remarkable insight and commentary provide a guiding hand for seekers and students alike in their quest for dharma.</DIV>