Master Sheng Yen, also known as Shifu, was a Taiwanese Chan (Zen) teacher who dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of Chan Buddhism and promoting peace and harmony in the world. He was born in 1930 in Jiangsu, China and entered monastic life at the age of 13.

As a young monk, Master Sheng Yen studied under various masters and became well-versed in the teachings of both Chinese and Japanese Zen traditions. In 1949, he fled to Taiwan with his family due to the Chinese Civil War and continued his monastic training there.

In the 1960s, Master Sheng Yen began to teach Chan Buddhism to laypeople, breaking away from the traditional practice of only teaching monks and nuns. He believed that everyone, regardless of their background or occupation, could benefit from the practice of Chan.

In 1975, he founded the Dharma Drum Mountain (DDM) Buddhist Association in Taiwan, which has since become a global organization with branches in over 20 countries. Through DDM, Master Sheng Yen established monasteries, meditation centers, and retreats to provide opportunities for people to learn and practice Chan Buddhism.

Master Sheng Yen's teachings emphasized the importance of integrating spiritual practice into everyday life. He believed that true enlightenment is not just about sitting in meditation, but also about applying the teachings in daily interactions and relationships.

In addition to teaching, Master Sheng Yen was also a prolific writer, with over 100 books published in various languages. His writings cover a wide range of topics, including meditation, ethics, and social issues.

Master Sheng Yen was known for his compassionate and humble nature, and his teachings often focused on cultivating inner peace and compassion for others. He also emphasized the importance of environmental protection and social welfare, and established the Dharma Drum Mountain Social Welfare and Charity Foundation to help those in need.

Master Sheng Yen's teachings have had a profound impact on the lives of many, and he is widely respected as one of the most influential Chan masters of modern times. He passed away in 2009, but his legacy continues through his teachings and the global community of practitioners he inspired.