This paper is a study of An Ordinary Life, the autobiography of Master Yin-shun (1906–2005), a well-known Buddhist monk and Chinese scholar. The study focuses on the writing features of three dramatic changes occurring in the writer’s life: change in status by his taking monastic vows, change in circumstances by his travelling and taking refuge, and change in life vision by his awakening from the dilemma between spiritual practice and teaching. It was found that in some cases external changes brought about inner changes, but in other cases inner changes gave new impetus to external changes. Dedicating his life to the study and propagation of Buddhism, Master Yin-shun emphasizes how he learned to follow the law of causality, and this is one of the main themes recurring throughout his autobiography. Another prominent feature in the Master’s life story is his constant endeavor, as a Buddhist monk, to put into practices his faith and understanding in Buddha’s teachings. Master Yin-shun regards his scholastic endeavors as a way of practicing the Bodhisattva path.
