The Ink of Legends South 1 T-Shirt

Grandmaster Yideng (一燈大師), originally named Duan Zhixing (段智興), is a significant character in Jin Yong's wuxia novels, "The Legend of the Condor Heroes" and "The Return of the Condor Heroes." He is renowned for his profound martial arts skills, compassionate heart, and deep Buddhist cultivation. Character Background: Emperor of Dali: Duan Zhixing was originally the Emperor of the Dali Kingdom, a descendant of the Dali Duan clan, and a master of the "One Finger Divine Skill" (一陽指). He was once known as the "Southern Emperor" (南帝), ranking among the "Five Greats" (天下五絕) alongside "Eastern Heretic" Huang Yaoshi, "Western Poison" Ouyang Feng, "Northern Beggar" Hong Qigong, and "Central Divine" Wang Chongyang. Ordination as a Monk: Due to a complex emotional entanglement (involving Ying Gu and Zhou Botong), Duan Zhixing became disillusioned and ultimately chose to become a Buddhist monk, taking the Dharma name Yideng. After his ordination, he dedicated himself to Buddhist practice, emphasising inner cultivation and compassion. Martial Arts and Characteristics: One Finger Divine Skill (一陽指): Grandmaster Yideng's "One Finger Divine Skill" is his most famous technique, possessing immense offensive power and healing capabilities. Throughout the stories, he repeatedly used this skill to heal others, demonstrating his compassionate nature. Compassionate Heart: Grandmaster Yideng's most defining characteristic is his compassionate heart. He is capable of forgiving and understanding others, even former enemies. He risked his own cultivation to heal Huang Rong, and even more so, he disregarded his own safety to try to convert the evil Qiu Qianren. Buddhist Cultivation: After becoming a monk, Grandmaster Yideng's Buddhist cultivation deepened, and he integrated Buddhist principles into his martial arts and daily life. In his later years, he, Zhou Botong and Ying Gu put aside their past grievances, and lived together in the Valley of a Hundred Flowers. Influence in the Novels: Grandmaster Yideng plays a crucial role in both "The Legend of the Condor Heroes" and "The Return of the Condor Heroes." His presence not only drives the plot but also adds profound philosophical and humanitarian depth to the stories. He represents a realm beyond mere martial prowess, embodying inner peace, compassion, and wisdom.