Huineng, also known as the Sixth Patriarch of Chan (Zen) Buddhism, is a revered figure in Chinese Buddhism. He is known for his teachings on sudden enlightenment and for his encounter with Shenxiu, the Fifth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism.

The story of Huineng's encounter with Shenxiu begins with the search for a successor to the Fifth Patriarch. Shenxiu, a highly respected monk, was considered the most likely candidate due to his extensive knowledge and practice of Buddhism. However, Huineng, a humble and illiterate woodcutter, also had a strong desire to learn from the Fifth Patriarch.

One day, Huineng overheard a recitation of the Diamond Sutra, a Buddhist text that emphasizes the concept of emptiness. He was deeply moved by the words and decided to travel to the monastery where the Fifth Patriarch resided to seek his teachings.

Upon arriving at the monastery, Huineng was given the task of grinding rice in the kitchen. Shenxiu, who was also at the monastery, noticed Huineng's sincere dedication and asked him to compose a poem to demonstrate his understanding of Buddhism. Shenxiu himself had already written a poem and hung it on the wall for everyone to see.

Huineng, being illiterate, asked someone to write down his poem for him. His poem read:

"The body is a Bodhi tree, The mind a standing mirror bright. At all times polish it diligently, And let no dust alight."

Shenxiu's poem, on the other hand, read:

"Bodhi is fundamentally without any tree, The bright mirror is also not a stand. Fundamentally there is not a single thing — Where could any dust be attracted?"

When the Fifth Patriarch saw the two poems, he immediately recognized that Huineng had a deep understanding of the true nature of Buddhism, while Shenxiu's poem showed a more intellectual understanding. He declared Huineng as his true successor and gave him the robe and bowl, symbols of the lineage of the patriarchs.

Shenxiu, humbled by Huineng's wisdom, became his disciple and together they spread the teachings of Chan Buddhism. The encounter between Huineng and Shenxiu is seen as a pivotal moment in the history of Chan Buddhism, as it marked a shift from a more intellectual approach to a more direct and sudden path to enlightenment.

In conclusion, the story of Huineng's encounter with Shenxiu highlights the importance of humility, sincerity, and understanding in the practice of Buddhism. It also emphasizes the idea that true wisdom and enlightenment cannot be achieved through intellectual knowledge alone, but through direct experience and realization.