He is widely regarded as one of the“four eminent monks” of the late Qing and early Republican periods, and, likehis three companions on this list, he stands for a particular aspect of Buddhistlife. Taixu is lionized as the preeminent exponent of modernization and reform.Hongyi (弘一, 1880–1942) epitomizes vinaya study and monastic reform.Xuyun (虛雲, 1840–1959) stands for meditation and the Chan School. Finally,Yinguang (印光, 1861–1940) appears as the driving force behind the Pure Landrevival.