Our Women Practioner Ancestors

In honoring our Zen lineage, we also remember the women who have carried, nurtured, and sustained the Dharma across generations. Many of these teachers have been left out of formal records, forgotten by history, or intentionally left behind. This page honors these practitioners of the Way, from many cultures and walks of life, whose wisdom and presence continue to inspire our practice. By including their names, we acknowledge a more complete and wholesome lineage, rooted in remembrance and gratitude.

Indian Ancestors

Acharya Mahapajapati
Acharya Mitta
Acharya Yasodhara
Acharya Tissa
Acharya Sujata
Acharya Sundari-nanda
Acharya Vaddhesi
Acharya Patachara
Acharya Visakha
Acharya Singalaka-mata
Acharya Khema
Acharya Uppalavanna
Acharya Samavati
Acharya Uttara
Acharya Chanda
Acharya Uttama
Acharya Bhadda Kundalakesa
Acharya Nanduttara
Acharya Dantika
Acharya Sakula
Acharya Siha
Acharya Dhammadinna
Acharya Kisagotami
Acharya Ubbiri
Acharya Isidasi
Acharya Bhadda Kapilani
Acharya Mutta
Acharya Sumana
Acharya Dhamma
Acharya Chitta
Acharya Anopama
Acharya Sukka
Acharya Sama
Acharya Utpalavarna
Acharya Shrimala Devi

Chinese Ancestors

Acharya Congchi
Acharya Lingzhao
Acharya Moshan Liaoran
Acharya Liu Tiemo
Acharya Miaoxin
Acharya Daoshen
Acharya Shiji
Acharya Zhi’an
Acharya Huiguang
Acharya Kongshi Daoren
Acharya Yu Daopo
Acharya Huiwen
Acharya Fadeng
Acharya Wenzhao
Acharya Miaodao
Acharya Zhitong

Japanese Ancestors

Acharya Zenshin
Acharya Zenzo
Acharya Ezen
Acharya Ryonen
Acharya Egi
Acharya Shogaku
Acharya Ekan
Acharya Shōzen
Acharya Mokufu Sonin
Acharya Myosho Enkan
Acharya Ekyu
Acharya Eshun
Acharya Soshin
Acharya Soitsu
Acharya Chiyono

A large red enso is wrapped around a circle of women's names. Within the circle of names there is black text that says "Prajnaparamita Kannon" and a smaller black enso. All names are listed on the Women's Lineage page for full accessibility.

This photo is Copyright of Mary Fowles, who is given all credit and deep gratitude to for this image.
https://www.maryfowles.com/zen-women