Abstract: These koan cases include encounters with rivals within the Zen lineage as well as practitioners outside the monastic order, such as hermits, shamans, wizards, mind readers, and miracle workers, and dangerous women including nuns and Zen grannies. Zen masters test their skills to show that they are more proficient than the irregular practitioners, who often gain a reputation for spiritual prowess.

Keywords: hermits, monastic, shaman, triple world, Zen practitioners,