Tianran Hanshi

CHINA, Guangdong, Guangzhou; Ming to Qing dynasty

Tianran Hanshi, originally named Zeng Qixin and also known as Lizhong, was a monk, calligrapher, and Provincial Scholar from Panyu district of Guangzhou. Tianran studied Buddhism under the tutelage of monk Daodu. He eventually moved to Danxiashan to build Haiyun Temple, Haichuang Temple, and Biechuan Temple, all of which are well-known today. He was honored for his contributions.
Talented in poetry and calligraphy, Tianran wrote grieving poems whenever members of the opposition force were sacrificed in battle with Qing soldiers. These poems expressed his loyalty and love for the Ming dynasty (1368–1644), and earned him great respect during this time. Among his written works is the published Collection of Poems by Master Tianran.
Several of those in the opposition forces, such as Azi Jinwu and Dangui Jinshi, converted to Buddhism and followed Tianran. His calligraphic piece, Poem of Plum Shadow, is at Ho’s Calligraphy Foundation in Taipei, Taiwan.