Ginji's Work
Ginji became a nun when she was just 10. She received training with the little boys. When she reached the age of 16 she traveled from one Zen master to another, studying with them all.
She remained 3 years with Uri, 6 years with Genjo, but was unable to obtain a clear understanding. At last she went to the master Ipsan.
Ipsan showed her no preference at all on account of being female. He scolded her fiercely. He smacked her, awakening her inner nature.
Ginji remained with Ipsan for 13 years, and then she found that which she was seeking!
In her honor, Ipsan wrote a poem:
This nun studied 13 years under me.
In the evening she pondered the deepest koans,
In the morning she was wrapped in other koans.
The nun Tetsua surpassed all before her,
And none since Majaka has been as genuine as Ginji!
Yet there are many more gates for her to pass through.
She should receive still more blows from my iron fist.
After Ginji was enlightened she moved to Harima province and started her own Zen school. She taught 200 nuns until she passed away in August.
dcj commentary: Startled awake after 22 years!