Dongshan Liangjie (807-869), the founder of the Caodong (Jap. Soto) Branch of Chinese Chan Buddhism, formed and elaborated the theory of “five positions”, or five levels of discernment of true reality. The main philosophical implications of the theory are believed to be rooted in the teachings of the Huayan tradition of Chinese Buddhism, especially in the theory of the “four dharmadhatus”. Many mediaeval commentators of Dongshan's positions seem to accentuate this aspect of his teachings, among many others, Dongshan's direct disciple Cashan Benji and Chan master Yongjue Yuanxian.