The Shobogenzo Koan Workshop

96: No, Fuke You!

2012-01-16T05:34:00.000-08:00

Master Fuke went to a patron’s house with Master Rinzai to eat lunch.

Master Rinzai asked: It is said in the sutras that a hair swallows the great ocean and a poppy seed encompasses Mount Sumeru. Are these also cases of “mystical abilities” or “splendid functions,” or are they just the real fact as it is?

Then Master Fuke turned the table and the meal upside down.

Master Rinzai said: What a rude man!

Master Fuke said: This place where we exist is ineffable. Why do you sometimes call it rude and sometimes call it polite?

Master Rinzai did not say anything.

The next day the two masters again went to have lunch with a family.

Master Rinzai asked: Is the offering today better or worse than yesterday?

Again Master Fuke upset the table.

Master Rinzai said: What a rude man!

Master Fuke said: You are blind. How can Buddhism preach rudeness or excellence?

Master Rinzai stuck out his tongue.

95: Specific & General.

2011-10-14T05:34:00.000-07:00

One day Master Unmon was asked by a monk: While he was alive, what did Gautama Buddha teach?

Master Unmon said: Gautama Buddha taught to suit the individual facts in front of him.

Then the monk asked: What did he do when the question was not about the real facts in front of him?

Master Unmon answered: Gautama Buddha gave a generalized talk.

94: A Bellyfull of this 'Emptiness' Malarky...

2011-10-06T02:56:00.000-07:00

One day Master Ungo was asked by a monk: I feel that I have understood something. Why can’t we recognize this reality in front of us?

Master Ungo said: This reality in front of us is not something that is born.

Then the monk said: What kind of state is it in, if it is not born?

Master Ungo said: It does not disappear.

The monk said: Where is it, then, before it is born?

The Master said: The place where it exists cannot be grasped.

The monk said: If reality is like that, where can it disappear to?

Master Ungo said: Reality never disappears.

93: Stitching Fire...

2011-09-15T17:07:00.000-07:00

When Master Somitsu was sewing, Master Tozan asked: What are you doing?

Master Somitsu said: I am sewing.

Master Tozan said: How is your sewing?

Master Somitsu said: In sewing, almost every stitch is the same.

Master Tozan said: Even though we have been traveling together for twenty years, is this all you can say? Doesn’t anything else come into it?

Master Somitsu said: What do you think, Acarya?

Master Tozan said: The whole earth seems to burst into flames.

92: Teacher, Teacher...

2011-09-02T14:17:00.000-07:00

Master Enen of Sansho temple in the Chin district said: When I have the chance to meet people, I meet them, but even if I meet them I do not always teach them.

Master Koke said: When I have the chance to meet people, I do not always meet them, but when I meet them I always teach them.

91: You Just Can't Get the Staff Anymore...

2011-08-07T04:56:00.000-07:00

Quoting:

Master Obaku said to a monk: Old veteran monks from many districts are all on the head of my staff.

The monk prostrated himself.

On a later occasion, the monk went to the temple where Master Daiju was staying and told him what Master Obaku had said.

Master Daiju said: Master Obaku said that? Has he met these monks from many districts?

The monk returned to Master Obaku and told him what Master Daiju had said.

Master Obaku said: Those words which I said have already spread throughout the world.

Master Kaku on Mount Roya said: It seems as if Master Daiju had excellent eyes, but actually he was blind. Master Obaku’s staff cannot be broken even if all the people in the world were to chew on it.

90: How to Navigate (our own) Buddhist Bullshit.

2011-07-04T17:08:00.000-07:00

Master Sensu Tokujo of Katei County in the Shu district was living in the order of Master Yakusan, together with Masters Dogo and Ungan. Master Sensu left Masters Dogo and Ungan and went to live near the Katei River, where he fished from a small boat.

Sometime earlier Master Sensu had asked Master Dogo: Elder brother, if
in the future you encounter a head monk who is very intelligent, please send
him to visit me.

Master Kassan Zen-e was living at Chikurin Temple at the entrance of the city of Junshu. After traveling through many districts like a cloud, Master Dogo chanced to hear Master Kassan giving a formal lecture. A monk in the audience asked: What is the Dharma-body?

Master Kassan said: The Dharma-body has no form.

The monk said: What is the Dharma-eye?

Master Kassan said: The Dharma-eye has no crack.

Despite himself, Master Dogo could not help laughing.

Master Kassan glanced at him. Then getting down from the preaching seat, he requested Master Dogo to sit on the preaching seat, and prostrating himself fully before Master Dogo he asked: The replies that I gave to the monk just now must surely have contained something that was not true, and so you, Reverend Monk, were unable to stop laughing. Would you be kind enough to tell me what the problem is?

Master Dogo said: Even though the Master has become the head of a large temple, just like other masters, he looks as if he did not have a teacher.

Master Kassan said: Please tell me what is wrong with me. I hope you can explain to me.

Master Dogo said: I will not explain it at all. I have a friend. He is living on a boat on the Katei River and teaches others. Please, Master, go there and see him. Then you will surely get something.

Master Kassan said: What is your friend like?

Master Dogo said: He does not have a roof above his head, nor any ground under him. Master, if you go there you should disguise the fact that you are a monk.

Then Master Kassan, following Master Dogo’s advice, dispersed the monks of his temple and changing into secular clothes, went immediately to the Katei River.

Master Sensu glanced at Master Kassan and asked: Reverend Buddhist Monk, what temple have you been living in?

Master Kassan said: I do not live in a temple; if I did I wouldn’t look like this.

Master Sensu said: Although you say “I wouldn’t look like this,” you do not look like something else.

Master Kassan said: It is not “this” in front of us.

Master Sensu said: Where were you studying before coming here?

Master Kassan said: It is not a place that can be reached by the ears and eyes.

Master Sensu said: “A word that can be understood is a pole to which a donkey is tied for eons.”

Then he added: I have been dangling you a line which is thousands of feet long, but your mind is in a deep pool. Why don’t you say anything, waiting only three inches from the hook?

Master Kassan started to open his mouth. Master Sensu struck him with the rod, which knocked him into the water. Master Kassan just managed to pull himself out of the water and back into the boat.

Master Sensu said: Say something! Say something!

Master Kassan started to open his mouth, and Master Sensu struck him again. At that moment, Master Kassan attained the truth suddenly. Then he nodded three times.

Master Sensu said: You can play with the line near the top of the rod, but it is naturally better not to stir up the clear water.

Master Kassan asked at last: You throw away both line and hook. What are you aiming for?

Master Sensu said: Just to cast a line out onto the blue water so that it floats peacefully. This is to realize Mu (emptiness).

Master Kassan said: Words are tinted black and there is no way to reach them. The tip of the tongue speaks, but it does not say anything.

Master Sensu said: When you fish the whole length of the river, you can meet the fish with the golden scales for the first time.

Master Kassan covered his ears.

Master Sensu said: That’s it! That’s it!

At last, trusting in Master Kassan, Master Sensu said: From now on, you should erase your footprints in the place where you conceal yourself; but do not conceal yourself where your footprints are erased. I stayed on Mount Yakusan for thirty years and got only this. Now you have it already. From now on you should not live in a city or a village. Just go to a place near an iron cauldron deep in the mountains and train one or even half a person. As the successor to my teachings, never let them cease.

Understanding the Master’s intention, Master Kassan prostrated himself in front of the Master and left. Reaching the bank of the river, he walked away, turning back many times.

At last Master Sensu called out to Master Kassan: Acarya! Acarya!

Master Kassan turned to face him. Then Master Sensu held the oar of the boat vertically and said: You! There may be other words that you will say.

After saying this, he tipped the boat over and vanished into the misty waves.

89: This Place/ That.

2011-06-24T06:48:00.000-07:00

One day Master Sekiso asked his Jisha (assistant): Master Dogo once said to a monk, “You should not throw away that place and become attached to this place.” What is your opinion?

The Jisha said: I rely completely on your understanding, Master.

The Master said: What is my understanding?

The Jisha walked from the west to the east and stood there.

The Master said: You just threw away that place and became attached to this place.

88: Grass Roots.

2011-05-26T03:02:00.000-07:00

When Layman Ho-on was sitting in Zazen he asked Master Reisho: An ancient Master said “Clear, clear are the hundreds of grasses. Clear, clear is the consciousness of the ancient masters.” What do you think of these words?

Master Reisho said: With your experience in Zazen and dignity, how could you bring up such a story?

The layman said: But what do you think?

Master Reisho repeated the same words: “Clear, clear are the hundreds of grasses. Clear, clear is the consciousness of the ancient masters.”

The layman laughed loudly.

87: Aloof, Hardass Zen.

2011-05-14T03:42:00.000-07:00

Whenever Master Ho-un of Roso Mountain in the Chi district saw a monk coming toward him, he would turn to face the wall and begin sitting in Zazen at once.

One day Master Nansen went to see him. Master Ho-un turned to face the wall and began sitting in Zazen. Master Nansen finally laid a hand on his shoulder.

Master Ho-un said: Who are you?

Master Nansen said: Fugan.

Master Ho-un said: What are you doing?

Master Nansen said: This is just normal conduct.

86: Squeaky Clean Buddha.

2011-04-27T04:00:00.000-07:00

Master Jun, a Buddhist monk in a cotton robe, was in the order of Master Yakusan Igen and became Densu (head of the Buddha Hall).

While they were washing the statue of the Buddha, Master Yakusan said: You are washing this buddha. Can you wash that buddha?

Master Jun said: Please bring that buddha here.

Master Yakusan said nothing.

85: A Shining Example.

2011-04-16T09:39:00.000-07:00

One day Acarya Kyoshu Zenmyo asked Master Sekiso: What happens when “a single strand of hair has gouged out innumerable holes?” Master Sekiso said: That would take tens of thousands of years. Zenmyo said: What happens after tens of thousands of years? Master Sekiso said: I will leave your upgrading in the Toka (government examination for monks) to take its own course, and I will leave your promotion to take its own course. On another occasion, Zenmyo asked the same question to Master Ko-in of Kin mountain. Master Ko-in said: I will leave your shiny shoes as they are; and I will leave the result of your efforts as it is.

84: Kidding Around.

2011-04-03T11:03:00.000-07:00

One day Master Ungan said to an assembly: There is a child of a human family. If you ask him a question, there is nothing that he cannot explain.

Master Tozan asked: Are there any books in his house?

Master Ungan said: There are none, not even one character.

Master Tozan said: How was it possible for him to obtain so much knowledge?

Master Ungan said: He didn’t sleep night and day.

Master Tozan said: If we ask him about the truth, can he answer?

Master Ungan said: Even if he knew how to express the truth, he would never express it.

83: The 'Mindfulness' Bug.

2011-03-31T06:34:00.000-07:00

Master Ungan Donjo in the Tan district was sweeping the ground one day.

Master Dogo Enchi said: You are very diligent in your work.

Master Ungan said: There is someone who is not diligent.

Master Dogo said: If that is true, you must have a second moon.

Then Master Ungan stood up his broom and said: How many moons are here?

Master Dogo left without saying anything.

82: A Right Pain-in-the-Grass?

2011-03-20T16:58:00.000-07:00

Master Tozan preached to the assembly at the end of summer: Autumn is beginning and summer has ended. Now you should go to the place where there is not a bit of grass within ten thousand miles.

The assembly said nothing.

A monk told this story to Master Sekiso. Master Sekiso said: You should have replied that even if we go out of the gate, there is only grass.

81: Being Light... which is Not Light.

2011-03-14T05:13:00.000-07:00

Quoting:

Master Unmon preached to an assembly: Everyone exists with their own light. However, when they try to look at it, it is invisible, and there is only deep, deep darkness. How does this light exist?

The assembly did not answer.

So the Master himself said in place of the assembly: The Zazen Hall, the Buddha Hall, the kitchen, and the temple gate.

He added: It is better if even good things do not exist.

80: A Tour of the Mistaken Self.

2011-02-27T07:39:00.000-08:00

One day a monk said farewell to Master Joshu.

The Master asked: Where do you plan to go?

The monk said: I am going to study Buddhism in many different districts.

The Master took up his hossu and said: You should not stay where “buddha” is. You should run away from where buddha is not. When you meet someone, even if at a place three thousand miles from here, you should not make a mistake in your preaching.

The monk said: If your teachings are like that, I will not leave.

The Master said: Pick up the willow blossom. Pick up the willow blossom.

79: No-Doubt Teaching.

2011-02-21T07:37:00.000-08:00

Master Yakusan Igen had not held a formal lecture in the Lecture Hall for a long time. The Head Monk said to the Master: The monks in the temple are longing to hear your teachings. Please Master, give a lecture for them.

The Master told the Head Monk to strike the bell. The assembly gathered at once.

The Master went to the Lecture Hall. Then after a little while, he stepped down from the lecture seat and went back to his personal room.

The Head Monk followed the Master and said: Master, you allowed me to announce a lecture for the monks. Why didn’t you say anything?

The Master said: There are teachers of sutras for Buddhist Sutras. There are teachers of commentaries for Buddhist Commentaries. How can you have any doubt about me?

Where is the Fault?

2011-02-17T03:09:00.000-08:00

One day Master Tozan called his Shuso, Tai, and offered him fruit to eat.

Then the Master said: There is one thing that supports heaven and earth. It is as black as lacquer, and it is always moving and functioning. At the same time, it pervades beyond its movement and function. Say where the mistake is.

The Shuso said: The mistake is in the movement and function.

Master Tozan scolded the disciple and took the fruit away from him.

77: Explaining/ Doing.

2011-02-12T16:07:00.000-08:00

The great Master Shoku on Mount Daiji in the Ko district preached to an assembly: It is better to practice one foot than to explain ten feet. It is better for us to practice one inch than to explain ten inches.

Master Tozan said: We explain what we cannot practice and we practice what we cannot explain.

76: When Two Heads are not Better than One.

2011-01-31T04:50:00.000-08:00

One day Master Isan Reiyu was asked by a monk: What is the truth?

Master Isan said: Not to have an intentional idea is the truth.

The monk said: I cannot understand your words.

Master Isan said: It is good to know that there is something that cannot be understood.

The monk said: In what state can we know that there is something that cannot be understood?

Master Isan said: When you are just you – not different from yourself.

75: Three Worlds.

2011-01-23T03:56:00.000-08:00

Master Ganto Seigen from Gakushu was once asked by a monk: When the three worlds arise ceaselessly, how should we act?

Master Ganto Seigen said: Just sit in Zazen.

The monk said: I cannot understand what you mean, Master.

Master Ganto Seigen said: Bring Mount Rozan here. Then I will tell you.

74: Half Done?

2011-01-18T09:43:00.000-08:00

In the Jo district one day, an old woman sent a man to Master Joshu with a donation, and a request that he recite all of the Buddhist Sutras.

Master Joshu stepped down to the floor of the Zazen Hall and walked around his seat once. Then he said: I have recited the whole of the Buddhist Sutras.

The man went back to the old lady and reported the Master’s conduct to her. She said, I asked Master Joshu to formally recite the whole of the Buddhist Sutras once. I feel as if he only half-recited them.

73: What tha Fork!?

2011-01-15T04:22:00.000-08:00

Master Himagan Jogu on Mount Godai had a forked stick. When he saw a Buddhist monk coming, he would hold it up and say: What kind of demons made you into a Buddhist monk? What kind of devils made you take up this pilgrimage? If you say something I will strike you with my stick; if you do not say anything I will strike you with my stick. Speak now! Speak now!

72: Dropping off the Golden Skin.

2011-01-08T04:27:00.000-08:00

Master Tozan Ryokai said: You should know about the matter of ascending buddhas.

The monk said: What is the matter of ascending buddhas?

Master Tozan Ryokai said: It is not buddhas.

Master Unmon said: It cannot be named. It cannot be expressed. Therefore the Master said “not.”

Master Hogen said: We call them buddhas just as a way of teaching.

71: The Long and the Short of it.

2011-01-06T10:41:00.000-08:00

Quoting:

Master Hoki on Mount Seihei in the Gaku district asked Master Suibi: What was Bodhidharma’s intention in coming to China from India?

Master Suibi replied: I will tell you the answer when no-one else is around.

After a short time, Master Hoki said: There is no-one around. Would you please tell me, Master?

Master Suibi stepped down to the floor of the Zazen Hall and guided Master Hoki into a bamboo garden.

Again Master Hoki said: There is no-one here. Please Master, tell me.

Master Suibi, pointing at the bamboo said: This stalk is this long; that stalk is that short.

70: Living with Something Hairy & Horny.

2011-01-03T05:47:00.000-08:00

Master Unmon Bun-en in the Sho district asked Master Sozan Honjaku: How should a Buddhist monk conduct himself?

Master Sozan said: He should eat the vegetables that come from the temple garden.

Master Unmon said: What happens as a result of living like that?

Master Sozan said: Have you ever raised an animal?

Master Unmon said: Yes, I have.

Master Sozan said: What kind of animal did you raise?

Master Unmon said: It has been wearing clothes and eating meals, which is not difficult.

Master Sozan said: You should have said that it was an animal covered with hair and with horns on its head.

Master Unmon prostrated himself in front of his Master.

69: Not-knowing the Truth.

2011-01-01T04:55:00.000-08:00

Patriarch Chin of Ryuko Temple in the Boku district asked a Shusai: What kind of sutras have you studied?

The Shusai said: I have studied the sutras of divination (I-Ching).

The Master said: It is said in the I-Ching that even though various people use it in their day-to-day lives, they do not know that they are using it. What is this thing that they do not know?

The Shusai said: They do not know the truth.

The Master said: What is the truth?

The Shusai did not say anything.

The Master said: In the end you do not know.

68: Sincere Cutting.

2010-12-26T04:44:00.000-08:00

One day Master Isan asked Master Kyozan: Where have you come from?

Master Kyozan said: I have been out in the fields.

Master Isan said: How many people were out there with you in the fields?

Master Kyozan held his mattock and stood with both hands in shashu.

Master Isan said: Today in the Southern Mountain there is a great man who cuts tall reeds.

Master Kyozan left carrying his mattock.

67: For Hands that Do Dishes...

2010-12-25T04:40:00.000-08:00

One day a monk asked Master Joshu: I am a Buddhist student who has entered the temple for the first time. I would like to ask the Master for his teachings.

The Master said: Have you finished your breakfast?

The monk said: Yes, I have.

The Master said: Then wash your dishes thoroughly.

Hearing these words, the monk had an insight.

66: Unlightenment.

2010-12-23T19:43:00.000-08:00

One night Master Yakusan Igen of Reishu had no light. He preached to his disciples: I have something to say. When an excellent ox is about to bear a calf, then I will say it to you.

At this a monk walked forward and said: An excellent ox has borne a calf, so Master, why don’t you speak?

.
The Master said: Bring me a light.
.

The monk returned to the group of disciples.

65: The Five Flavours of...

2010-12-22T10:39:00.000-08:00

One day a monk said farewell to Master Kiso.

The Master said: Where are you going?

The monk replied: I am leaving here to study the Zazen of five tastes in many different districts.

The Master said: In my district – this place – I have the Zazen of one taste.

The monk asked: What is the Master’s Zazen of one taste?

.
The Master struck the disciple.

64: "What to do?"

2010-12-13T17:36:00.000-08:00

One day, when Master Nansen saw Master To Inpo approaching, he pointed to a clay vase of pure water and said: This vase of pure water is part of the surroundings. There is water in the vase. Without disturbing the surroundings, please fetch water for me, your old Master.

Master To Inpo took up the vase and poured the water out in front of Master Nansen.

Master Nansen did not say anything.

63: A Good Pick Up.

2010-11-29T02:37:00.000-08:00

Master Seikatsu of Hofuku Temple in the Shoshu District became a
disciple of Master Suiryu Dofu. One day the Master asked: Patriarch
Seikatsu, you are now my student. What Master did you study with before
coming here? Have you attained the truth or not?

Master Seikatsu said: In the past, I visited Master Daisho and attained
something that I could believe in.

Then Master Suiryu went to the Lecture Hall and gathered all the
disciples of the temple together and said: Patriarch Seikatsu, come forward
and face the assembly. After burning incense, please give a lecture on what you
have attained. I, an old monk, will judge you.

Master Seikatsu, picking up the incense, said: I have picked up the incense
already. However, the attainment of the truth is different from the attainment of
the truth.

Master Suiryu was enormously pleased and affirmed his disciple at
once.

62: A Whole World of "Who?"

2010-11-24T08:49:00.000-08:00

Master Shinzan Somitsu of the Tanshu District was walking with Master Tozan. Master Tozan, pointing at a small temple beside the road, said: There is someone inside the temple who is preaching oneness of mind and matter.

Master Shinzan said: He is “Who?”

Master Tozan said: When you said that, I got the state that completely transcends life and death.

Master Shinzan said: A person who preaches mind and matter is ineffable.

Master Tozan said: I have gotten the state of vitality even in death.

61: Mystical Powers.... Whooooooh!

2010-11-12T11:43:00.000-08:00

Master Isan Reiyu was lying down one day when Master Kyozan Ejaku came into the room. The Master turned over and, facing the wall, continued lying down.

Master Kyozan said: I am your disciple, Master. Please don’t show your backside to me.

.
As the Master was standing up Kyozan started to leave the room. The Master called out: Jakusu!

Master Kyozan turned his head.

The Master said: I want to tell you about my dream. Please listen.

Master Kyozan lowered his head and listened to his Master’s story.

The Master said: Please analyze my dream for me.

Kyozan took a bowl of water and a towel to the Master. The Master washed his face, and then sat for a while.

Master Kyogen Chikan entered the room. Master Isan said: Just now I demonstrated a supreme mystical ability with disciple Ejaku. The mystical ability was different from the small-scale abilities of the Hinayana Buddhists.

Master Kyogen said: I was in the next room and I could see what happened clearly.

The Master said: Please say something yourself.

Then Master Kyogen made a cup of tea and brought it to the Master.

Then Master Isan praised the two disciples, saying: You two disciples have mystical abilities and real wisdom surpassing Sariputra and Maudgalyayana.

60: Grave Situation.

2010-11-07T03:57:00.000-08:00

One day Master Gensa walked along with Master Seppo. Master Seppo pointed at the ground in front of him and said: This is just the right place for my tomb.

Master Gensa said: How tall will it be?

Master Seppo cast his eyes upward and downward to indicate the height.

Master Gensa said: It would not be true if I said there is no happiness or benefit to human beings and gods in your words, but the Master does not have any view, even in his dreams, which was affirmed by Gautama Buddha on Vulture Peak.

Master Seppo said: How would you reply then?

Master Gensa said: Seven or eight feet.

59: Get It?

2010-10-24T20:51:00.000-07:00

One day Master Daikan Eno on Mount Sokei was asked by a monk: What kind of person can get the fundamental principle on Mount Obai?

The Master said: Someone who understands Buddhism can get it.

The monk said: Did you also get it, Master?

The Master said: I didn’t get it.

The monk said: Master, why didn’t you get it?

The Master said: I do not understand Buddhism.

58: No Reflection.

2010-10-08T10:08:00.001-07:00

Master Sekiso Keisho on Mount Sekiso in the Tan district was asked by a
monk one day: Master Sekiso, your fame for having the concrete state in which
there is no reflection has spread more than three thousand miles.

The Master said: Yes, that is true.

The monk said: However, should we reflect on all phenomena apparent in
front of us or not?

The Master said: My teachings do not surprise people.

The monk said: Not surprising people is not the same as reflecting on all
phenomena. What is the state in which there is no reflection?

The Master said: It is when the whole Universe does not conceal anything.

57: A Nail Biter.

2010-10-08T10:08:00.000-07:00

Master Sochi on Mount Dogo left Master Yakusan’s temple and went to visit Master Nansen.

Master Nansen asked: Reverend monk, what is your name?

Master Sochi replied: Sochi. (So means “inclusive” or “all-pervasive” when used as an adjective, and “principle” or “synthesis” when used as a noun. Chi means “wisdom.”)

Master Nansen said: There may be some place where the intellect cannot reach. What would you say is the “So” [principle] of that place?

Master Sochi said: There is a strong aversion to talking about it.

Master Nansen said: If you were to try to make it too clear, a horn would spring out of your head.

Three days later, Sochi was sewing in the room behind the Zazen Hall, along with Master Ungan.
Master Nansen passed by, and seeing them, asked Master Sochi again: A few days ago you said that you have a strong aversion to talking about the place where the intellect cannot reach. And I said that if you tried, a horn would spring out of your head. Then how should we conduct ourselves?

At that, Master Sochi picked himself up and went into the Zazen Hall. Then Master Nansen left.

Master Sochi came back again and sat down. Then Master Ungan asked: Why didn’t you answer the Master just now?

Master Sochi said: Look how clever you have become!

Master Ungan did not understand this reply, so he went and asked Master Nansen: In the question you asked Master Sochi just now, why didn’t Master Sochi reply to you, Master?

Master Nansen said: He doesn’t follow the way of others.

Master Ungan said: What do you mean, not to follow the way of others?

Master Nansen said: Haven’t you heard it said that “there is a strong aversion to talking about the place where the intellect cannot reach. If you try to explain it, a horn will spring out of your head. So we should go forward, not following the way of other people.”

Once again, Master Ungan did not understand.

Master Sochi recognized that Master Ungan could not understand, so he said: This man will not be satisfied in this temple. So they went back to Master Yakusan’s temple together. Seeing the two disciples coming back to the temple, Master Yakusan asked Ungan: Where have you just been?

Master Ungan said: I have been to Master Nansen.

Master Yakusan asked: What did Master Nansen teach you?

Master Ungan told the story of what had happened.

Master Yakusan said: You have used your opportunity with Master Nansen, and now have you come back here?

Master Ungan did not have an answer. Then Master Yakusan laughed loudly.

Then Master Ungan asked: What does it mean to go forward, not following the way of others?

Master Yakusan said: I am too tired today. Come at another time.

Master Ungan said: I came back here especially to ask you this.

Master Yakusan said: Leave me for a while.

Master Ungan left.

Master Sochi was outside the Master’s room and heard that Master Ungan could not understand the situation. Then Sochi noticed that he had unconsciously been chewing the tip of a finger until he had drawn blood.

Master Sochi went to Master Ungan and asked: What happened when you asked the Master your question?

Master Ungan said: The Master did not teach me anything.

Master Sochi bowed down.

Sochi and Ungan stayed with Master Yakusan as Jisha (assistants).

Master Yakusan said: There is a strong aversion to talking about the place that the intellect cannot reach. If we try, a horn will appear on our head.

Master Sochi bowed down and left.

Then Ungan asked Yakusan: Master, why didn’t Master Sochi discuss the subject with you?

Master Yakusan said: I have a pain in my back today. Sochi understands why. Go and ask him.

So Master Ungan asked Sochi: Sochi, why did you not answer the Master just now?

Master Sochi said: Today I have a headache. Go and ask the Master.

Later, when Master Ungan was about to die, he sent a man with a farewell letter to Master Sochi. Reading the letter, Master Sochi said: There is something that Master Ungan did not understand. I regret that I did not say anything to him at that time. Even so, Master Ungan was a true disciple of Master Yakusan.

56: Reward/ No-Reward.

2010-09-29T09:45:00.000-07:00

Master Isan Reiyu said to Master Kyozan Ejaku: There is a secular
Buddhist student who donated three bands of silk to help with the purchase of a
bell, in order to ensure the happiness of the people.

Master Kyozan said: The secular student’s silk bought the bell for the Master.
How will you reward him, Master?
.

The Master struck the Zazen Hall floor three times with a staff and said: I
will reward him with this.

Master Kyozan said: What use would a reward like that be to him?
.
Master Isan struck the floor three times again, and said: You do not like
this. Then what would you do?

Master Kyozan said: I do not dislike it, but this is the state of a Master who
has attained the truth.
.
Master Isan said: You know that Zazen is the state of a Master who has
attained the truth. Why do you look for other things from me with which to
reward the student?
.
Master Kyozan said: I wonder why the Master used the state of an enlightened
man as the reward?

Master Isan said: Don’t you see that even Master Bodhidharma, when he came
from the west to this land, used this to reward others? You and many other
people all receive his gift.

55: Which Body does the Buddha Use?

2010-09-21T02:41:00.000-07:00

One day Master Tozan was asked by a monk: Among the Buddha’s three kinds of bodies, which one does he use to preach Buddhism?

The Master said: I am always sincere here and now.

Some time later the monk asked Master Sozan: Master Tozan said, “I am always sincere here and now.” What did he mean?

Master Sozan said: If you want to get my head, please cut it off and take it.

The monk also asked Master Seppo.

Master Seppo struck the monk with a stick as he was opening his mouth, and said: I have also been to Mount Tozan, and have since come here.

54: Whisk-y Business.

2010-09-09T08:21:00.000-07:00

Master Hyakujo Ekai of the Ko district became a disciple of Master Baso once again.

.
Master Baso held up his hossu.
.

Master Hyakujo said: Do you use that or do you find it unnecessary?

Master Baso put his hossu back.

Master Hyakujo stood near Baso for a while.

Master Baso said: After this, how will you smack your lips together to teach others?

Master Hyakujo picked up his hossu and held it vertically.

Master Baso said: Do you use that or do you find it unnecessary?

Master Hyakujo lowered his hossu.

Master Baso gave a mighty shout.

Later, Master Hyakujo said to Master Obaku: A while ago Master Baso shouted at me loudly. After that my ears were so deaf I could hear nothing for three days!

53: Regarding Here.

2010-09-01T15:19:00.000-07:00

Master Seigen said to Master Sekito: Everyone without exception says that there is a good situation on Mount Sokei, where Master Daikan Eno lived.

Master Sekito said: Here is a man who does not say that there is a good situation on Mount Sokei.

Master Seigen said: Then from where did you get the sutras of Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism?

Master Sekito said: They have vanished from this place, and not a single thing is missing from my life.

52: Something Fishy About Enlightenment.

2010-08-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

Master Sansho asked Master Seppo: The excellent fish with golden scales that can pass through nets – what does it eat?

Master Seppo said: When you get out of the net, I will tell you.

Master Sansho said: Although you are a reverend monk, Master of fifteen hundred disciples, you do not understand even a bit of what I am asking!

Master Seppo said: I am very busy with my work as the Master of this temple.

51: For the Birds.

2010-08-20T08:11:00.000-07:00

Quoting:

One day a monk asked Master Nansen: When Master Gozu had not yet seen the Fourth Patriarch of China, why did hundreds of birds pick up flowers and bring them to him?

Master Nansen said: Because Master Gozu was moving step by step in the path of the buddhas.

The monk said: After he had seen the Fourth Patriarch, why didn’t birds pick up flowers and bring them to him?

The Master said: Even though the birds did not come, Master Gozu was on the same level of truth as myself.

50: An Earful About Realisation.

2010-08-17T06:56:00.000-07:00

Master Sekiro of the Fun district was asked by a monk one day: I haven’t recognized my original nature yet. Master, please show me in some way.

The Master said: I, Sekiro, do not have any ears.

The monk said: I recognize it is my own mistake.
.

The Master said: I, an old monk, have also made a mistake.

The monk said: Where is the Master’s mistake?

The Master said: My mistake exists at the place where your mistake is.

The monk prostrated himself.

The Master struck him.

49: Have We Been There?

2010-08-13T04:17:00.000-07:00

Master Tozan Ryokai asked a monk: Where have you come from?

The monk said: I came here after enjoying traveling in the mountains.

The Master said: Have you arrived at the top of the mountain?

The monk said: Yes I have.

The Master said: Is there anyone on the top of the mountain?
.

The monk said: There is no-one.

The Master said: Then you haven’t arrived at the top of the mountain.

The monk said: If I have not reached the top, how can I recognize that there is
no-one there?

The Master said: Reverend monk, why don’t you stay here in this temple?

The monk said: It is not that I refuse to stay in your temple, but there is a person in India who does not affirm my staying here.

The Master said: I suspect that this monk is excellent!

48: Did He Miss the Small Print?

2010-08-05T17:39:00.000-07:00

One day Master Gensa Shibi asked his disciple to take a letter to Master Seppo Gison. Master Seppo Gison received the letter while he was just on his way to the Lecture Hall to give a lecture. He opened the letter and looked at it, but the letter was only a sheet of blank paper. In the Lecture Hall, Master Seppo showed the blank paper to the assembly and said: Do you understand this?

Then, after a short pause he said: Haven’t you heard it said that excellent people, though separated by thousands of miles, have a common attitude?

Hearing these words, the disciple returned to Master Gensa and repeated the words to his Master.

Master Gensa said: An old Buddhist Master on the top of the mountain passed
over the matter but he did not recognize the fact.

47: No Mean Feet.

2010-08-02T12:49:00.000-07:00

One day, just as Master Isan Reiyu crossed his legs to begin Zazen
practice, he pointed to his shoes and said to Master Kyozan Ejaku: Those
shoes carry the heavy weight of others throughout the day; they cannot refuse it.

Master Kyozan said: In ancient times, even in the temples of Jetavana-vihara,
Gautama Buddha preached only this one matter.

Master Isan said: Your words are not sufficient. Please say something more.

Master Kyozan said: In the cold season, even wearing socks in our shoes is not
too much of a luxury for them.

46: Downtown Joshu.

2010-07-24T05:01:00.000-07:00

One day a monk asked Master Joshu Jushin: What is Joshu?

The Master said: It has an east gate, south gate, west gate, and north gate.

The monk said: I did not ask you about that.

Master Joshu said: You asked me about Joshu itself.

45: Not Good in Theory.

2010-07-13T02:55:00.000-07:00

One day a monk asked Master Gensa Shibi: It is not necessary for me to listen to the theory of the three kinds of Buddhism or the twelve kinds of Buddhist Scriptures. What was the intention of Master Bodhidharma, who came to China from India in the west?

Master Gensa Shibi said: The theory of the three kinds of Buddhism and twelve kinds of Buddhist Scriptures are all useless.

44: Exhaustive Expression.

2010-07-09T11:23:00.000-07:00

When Master Isan Reiyu went to the Lecture Hall to give his lecture, a monk stepped out in front of him and said: Master, please preach a sermon for these many Buddhist monks.

The Master said: I have become completely exhausted from teaching you.
.

The monk prostrated himself in front of the Master.

43: Snake in the Grass.

2010-07-05T04:20:00.000-07:00

When Master Kiso Chijo of Kisu Temple on Mount Ro was cutting grass, the Master of another temple arrived. Just then they noticed a snake near them. Without hesitating, Master Chijo cut the snake in two with the sickle.

The Master of the other temple said: I have heard of your reputation for a long time, but now I see that you are just a Buddhist monk with rough behavior.

Master Chijo said: Am I the one who is rough, or is it you?

The other Master said: Then what do you mean by “rough”?

Master Chijo stuck the sickle into the ground, handle first.

The other Master said: What is “not rough”?

Master Chijo acted as if he were killing a snake.

The other Master said: Maybe you are right; I will follow your example.

Master Chijo said: I will allow you to follow my example for a while, but do you realize why I killed the snake?

The other Master did not say anything.

42: They Call Him the Wanderer.

2010-07-02T16:21:00.000-07:00

Master Kyosei Dofu asked a monk: Where have you come from?

The monk said: From Sampo.

Master Kyosei Dofu said: Where were you in the summer?

The monk said: Goho.

Master Kyosei Dofu said: You deserve to be struck thirty times with a stick,
but I will not insist on that.

The monk said: What have I done wrong?

Master Kyosei Dofu said: You seem to be just wandering from one temple to
another.

41: Pillar Talk.

2010-06-28T16:56:00.000-07:00

Quoting:

One day a monk asked Master Sekito Kisen on Mount Nangaku: What was Master Bodhidharma’s intention in coming from the west to China?

.
Master Sekito Kisen said: Ask the pillars outside.
.

The monk said: I cannot understand your answer at all.

.
Master Sekito Kisen said: I am also unable to understand the situation if I think about it.

40: Leave... the Kid... Alone.

2010-06-15T07:18:00.000-07:00

The Second Master of Hoju Temple in the Chin district held a ceremony to mark becoming the Master of his own temple. Then Master Sansho Enen pushed a monk out in front of the Second Master. The Second Master struck the monk at once.

Master Sansho Enen said: If you teach others like this, you will not only cause this monk to lose an eye, but you will make all the people in the Chin district blind.

The Second Master threw his stick on the floor and went back to his private room at once.

39: Happy New Year?

2010-06-12T17:40:00.000-07:00

One day a monk asked Master Kyosei Dofu of Ryusaku Temple in the
Ko district: Is the first day of the New Year related to Buddhism?

The Master said: Yes it is.

The monk said: What is the Buddhist teaching about New Year’s Day?

The Master said: New Year’s Day is the beginning of happiness and all things become new.

The monk said: I thank the Master for his answer.

The Master said: Today I am not so clever.

On another day, the monk asked Master Myokyo: Is the first day of the New Year related to Buddhism?

Master Myokyo said: No it is not.

The monk said: Every year is a good year and every day is a good day. Why do you say it is not?

Master Myokyo said: An old man of the Cho family drinks sake and an old man of the Ri family gets drunk.

The monk said: Your words were sufficiently controlled and great at the beginning, but now they are very small like something with the head of a dragon and the tail of a snake.

Master Myokyo said: Today my mind is not very clear.

38: Realisation Robbed Blind.

2010-06-06T06:07:00.000-07:00

Master Seppo Gison on Mount Seppo in the Fuku district pointed to a
hearth and said to Master Gensa: Inside this hearth, all buddhas in the past, present and future are preaching Gautama Buddha’s truth.

Master Gensa said: The regulations in the Emperor’s sanctuary have recently been tightened.

Master Seppo said: In what way?

Master Gensa said: It is forbidden for anyone to plunder a street market.

37: Nirvana Street.

2010-06-02T13:41:00.000-07:00

One day a monk asked Master Kenpo in the Etsu district: Buddhas in all directions enter nirvana through one way. What street are they on, I wonder?

The Master, picking up a stick and pointing up the street, said: They are here.

36: Who Hears it?

2010-05-23T04:53:00.000-07:00

One day a monk asked Master Tokuzan Tokukai in the Ro district: Who can hear the Buddha preaching to the Order on Vulture Peak?

The Master said: Monk, you can hear it.

The monk said: I do not understand. What kinds of things were discussed on Vulture Peak?

The Master said: You have understood it exactly.

35: No Excuses.

2010-05-08T11:54:00.000-07:00

Master Tosu Daido on Mount Tosu was asked by a monk one day: What was Gautama Buddha’s state described with the words, “The ten kinds of body in the self-regulated?”

The Master descended from his Zazen platform and stood with his
hands in shashu*.

The monk said: What distance is there between ordinary people and the sacred?

The Master descended from the Zazen platform again and stood there
with his hands in shashu.

(*folded and held in front of the chest. See picture)

34: Not Understood/ Not Hidden.

2010-04-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

One day a government officer sent an offering to Master Ungo Doyo of Ungo mountain in the Ko district, asking: It is said that Gautama Buddha had secret talk, and Mahakasyapa did not conceal anything. What is the talk of Gautama Buddha?

The Master called out: Officer!

The officer replied.

The Master said: Do you understand?

The officer said: I don’t understand.

The Master said: Not understanding is the secret talk of Gautama Buddha. And understanding is Master Mahakasyapa not concealing anything.

33: Falling Down.

2010-04-09T06:27:00.000-07:00

One day a monk asked Master Sozan Honjaku: I have heard that an ancient Master said “Everyone who falls down on the ground must rely on the ground to stand up again.” How do we “fall down”?

Master Sozan said: When we affirm the real situation, we know.

The monk said: How do we “stand up”?

The Master said: Just stand up.

32: Nostrils.

2010-03-25T18:36:00.000-07:00

Veteran monk Fu of Taigen City asked Master Kozan: Where are the nostrils that have existed since before your father and mother were born?

Master Kozan said: They have appeared just now. Where were they?

The veteran monk did not affirm the Master’s words, and said: You should ask me the same question. I would like to answer for you.

The Master said: In the time before your mother and father were born where were your nostrils?

The veteran monk just fanned himself.

31: An Old Stickler.

2010-02-27T16:48:00.000-08:00

Quoting:

Master Tokuzan Senkan in the Tei district gave an informal lecture to an assembly in his private room. He said: Tonight I don’t want to have any discussion. If there is anyone who wants to ask a question I will strike him thirty times with my stick.

Straight away, a monk walked forward and prostrated himself in front of the Master.

The Master struck him immediately.

The monk said: I haven’t asked a question yet. Why did you strike me?

The Master said: Where have you come from?

The monk said: I am from Korea.

The Master said: I would have liked to have struck you thirty times with a stick before you even got off the boat.

30: To Stay or Go.

2010-02-23T15:39:00.000-08:00

Master Sozan Honjaku in the Bu district was leaving Mount Tozan.

Master Tozan asked: Where do you want to go?

Master Sozan said: I am going to a place where there is no change.

Master Tozan asked: How can we leave the place where there is no change?

Master Sozan said: Even if I leave this place, there can be no change.

29: Not Just a Matter of Life or Death?

2010-02-15T03:06:00.000-08:00

Master Zengen Chuko in the Tan district one day visited a house with Master Dogo Enchi to convey their condolences. At that moment Master Zengen, patting the coffin, said: Is it alive or dead?

Master Dogo said: I will not say alive or dead.

Master Zengen said: Why won’t you say?

Master Dogo said: I will never say. I will never say.

On the way back to the temple Master Zengen said: Master! Please give me your answer now. If you don’t, I will hit you.

Master Dogo said: You can hit me if you like, but I will never say.

Then Master Zengen hit Master Dogo several times with his fist.

On returning to the temple, Master Dogo said: It would be better for you to leave this temple, but if the Shuso hears that you are leaving it will cause problems.

After Master Dogo died, Master Zengen went to the temple of Master Sekiso Keisho. He told Master Sekiso about the incident and asked the Master for his teachings.

Master Sekiso said: I will not say it is alive; I will not say it is dead.

Master Zengen said: Why won’t you say?

Master Sekiso said: I will never say. I will never say.

On hearing these words, Master Zengen realized something.

28: Withered Trees & the Moaning of Dragons.

2010-02-07T07:27:00.000-08:00

One day a monk asked Master Chikan of Kyogen Temple: What is the truth?

Master Kyogen said: Amid the silence of withered trees, we can hear the moaning of dragons.

The monk said: What is a person in the state of truth?

Master Kyogen said: Skulls that have eyeholes.

Thereafter, a monk asked Master Sekiso: What does the moaning of dragons amid the silence of withered trees show?

Master Sekiso said: It shows that there is still some trace of vitality.

The monk said: What do eyeholes in skulls show?

Master Sekiso said: They show that there is still a trace of something human.

On another occasion, a monk asked Master Sozan: What does the moaning of dragons among withered trees show?

Master Sozan said: It shows that our life blood has never stopped flowing.

The monk said: What do eyeholes in skulls show?

Master Sozan said: They show that there is still something that has not dried up.

The monk said: I wonder if anyone can hear the dragons moaning.

Master Sozan said: Over the whole face of the earth there is no-one who does not hear them.

The monk said: I wonder what the dragons are saying when they moan.

Master Sozan said: Even though we do not know what they are saying, all those who hear it free themselves of something.

27: Rinzai's Slap-fest.

2010-01-31T16:12:00.000-08:00

Master Rinzai Gigen of Rinzai Temple in the Chin district had been living in the order of Master Obaku Kiun for three years, and his conduct was sincere and pure. The Shuso (head monk) praised him by saying: Even though he is a student who began Buddhist study only recently, he is different from other monks.

Then he persuaded Master Rinzai to go to the Master of the Temple and ask a question: What is the great purpose of Buddhism that has been transmitted from authentic master to authentic disciple?

Master Obaku struck Master Rinzai at once, even before he had finished speaking. On asking the question three times, Master Obaku struck him each time.

Then Master Rinzai went back to the Shuso and said: It was my good fortune to receive your benevolence. You made me ask the Master a question. I asked the question three times and each time he hit me with his stick. I deeply regret that I am unable to understand the profound meaning of the Master’s behavior, because my own poor state hinders me. Therefore I would like to leave the temple for a while.

The Shuso said: If you want to leave the temple you have to say goodbye to the Master. Then you may leave the temple.

The Shuso visited the Master’s room beforehand and said: The young student who asked you the question has the ability to follow the rule of the Universe. When he comes to you to say goodbye, please be good enough to offer him some teaching. If we prune him, he will become a great tree and provide cool shade for people of the world.

Master Rinzai went to the Master’s private room to say his farewells.

The Master said: Do not go to any place other than the one I will tell you. Go to see Master Ko-an Daigu.

When Master Rinzai arrived at the temple of Master Daigu, the Master asked him where he had come from.

Master Rinzai said: Obaku.

Master Daigu said: What words did Master Obaku use?

Master Rinzai said: I asked a question three times, and I was struck three times. I don’t know whether I did something wrong or not.

Master Daigu said: Master Obaku had such a kind heart, like that of an old woman, that he completely wore himself out for you. But you cannot recognize his kindness. You say that you don’t know whether you made a mistake or not.

Hearing these words Master Rinzai attained the truth.

Then he said: There is not so much to Master Obaku’s Buddhism after all.

Master Daigu grasped Master Rinzai and said: You, a child of a demon, in a bed of urine. Just a moment ago you said you couldn’t recognize whether you had made a mistake or not. Now you say there is not so much to his Buddhism. What principle do you have? Say something now! Say something now!

Master Rinzai struck Master Daigu’s side three times with his fist.

Master Daigu, leaving him, said: I will have nothing more to do with you.

Leaving the temple, Master Rinzai went back to Mount Obaku.

Master Obaku asked: You go back and forth many times. How can you have the time to attain the truth?

Master Rinzai said: I came back here just because your mind is so kind, like that of an old woman.

Master Rinzai saluted the Master by prostrating to him, and then stood up and remained standing there.

Master Obaku asked: Where did you go and return from?

Master Rinzai said: Following the Master’s suggestion, I went to the temple of Master Daigu.

Master Obaku asked: What words did Daigu use?

Master Rinzai told him of his encounter with Master Daigu.

Master Obaku said: If you come here I will strike you at once.

Master Rinzai said: Why do you wait for me to come? I can be struck at once.

Then he slapped Master Obaku’s face with the palm of his hand.

Master Obaku said: This strange, mad man, coming to my temple to rub the beard of a tiger.

Master Rinzai cried Katsu! at once.

Master Obaku said to his Jisha (assistant): Take this strange, mad man to the Zazen Hall to live.

26: A 'Heads-up' from an Old Buddha.

2010-01-23T11:09:00.000-08:00

One day Master Nan-yo Echu of Kotaku Temple in Saikei was asked by Emperor Shukuso of the Tang Dynasty: What is the state of balance in Zazen that is called “mujo?”

The Master said: Faithful supporter; go forward, treading on the head of Vairocana Buddha.

The Emperor said: I don’t understand.

Master Nan-yo Echu said: Don’t imagine that you are the Pure Universal Body.

25: Where's the Master?

2010-01-16T17:36:00.000-08:00

Master Rakan Keichin of Jizo Temple prepared dinner on the anniversary of the death of his Master, Gensa Shibi. He invited Master Ho-on to share the dinner with him that evening.

When Master Ho-on looked at the place where, according to custom, a representation of Master Gensa Shibi should have been placed, he could see nothing.

Finally he asked Master Rakan: Aren’t there any images of the Master?

Then Master Rakan bowed down with joined hands and said: Look!

Master Ho-on said: From the beginning there has never been any image of the Master.

Master Rakan Keichin said: It seems as if you have never seen the Master’s image at all.

24: The Great Fire.

2010-01-14T17:00:00.000-08:00

One day a monk asked Master Daizui Hoshin from the Eki district: When the eternal fire comes and all three thousand worlds are being destroyed, will this world also be destroyed?

Master Daizui Hoshin said: It will be destroyed.

The monk said: If this is true I would like to follow circumstances.

Master Daizui Hoshin said: Yes, we should follow circumstances.

23: On the Level.

2010-01-12T07:51:00.000-08:00

One day Master Kyozan Ejaku of the En district was out clearing the
fields with Master Isan Reiyu.

Master Kyozan Ejaku said: This place is low like this. That place is high like that.

Master Isan Reiyu said: Water makes all things level. We can make them level with water.

Master Kyozan Ejaku said: We should not rely upon water, Master. High places are balanced in being high as they are. Low places are balanced in being low as they are.

Master Isan affirmed these words.

22: Ring the Bell!

2010-01-09T17:08:00.000-08:00

Master Fuke of the Chin district usually went into a town ringing a bell and saying:

If a clear mind comes, I let it be clear.
If a deluded mind comes, I let it be deluded.
If the wind comes from all directions, four or eight directions, I let it be as a whirlwind.
And if space comes I will strike it again and again.

One day Master Rinzai directed a monk to grab Master Fuke and
without letting him move, ask: If neither clear nor deluded mind comes, what do you do?

Master Fuke freed himself from the monk’s grasp and said: Tomorrow there will be a formal dinner in Dai-hi Temple.

Returning back to Master Rinzai, the monk reported the fact.
Master Rinzai said: I have always thought that this is no ordinary monk.

21: The Truth in Porky Pies.

2010-01-06T10:32:00.000-08:00

Quoting:

One day in the past, Master Banzan Hoshaku of the Yu district went to a shop in a town and noticed a customer who was buying pork.

The customer said to the butcher: Please cut me one piece which is fresh.

The butcher threw down his knife, and holding his hands in shashu, he said: Sir, where is there any unfresh pork here?

The Master realized the truth on hearing these words.

20: Cutting Remarks.

2009-12-25T18:00:00.000-08:00

One day Officer Jiku asked Master Chosa Keishin: An earthworm is cut into two pieces and the two pieces are both moving. Which piece, I wonder, contains the worm’s Buddha-nature?

Master Chosa Keishin said: Don’t have illusions.

Officer Jiku said: But we cannot deny that the two pieces are moving.

Master Chosa Keishin said: This is because the physical elements of wind and fire have not yet expired.

Officer Jiku didn’t have any reply.

Then the Master called out to the Officer in a loud voice.

The officer answered: Yes?

Master Chosa Keishin said: That natural attitude is your original life, isn’t it?

Officer Jiku said: Yes. There would be no second master of myself even if we ended these questions and answers here and now.

Master Chosa Keishin said: I cannot call you Emperor today.

Officer Jiku said: If that is your opinion, I will give up all questions and answers with you. Do you think that I am not the master of myself?

Master Chosa Keishin said: Whether or not you reply to me is not important, but to worry about replying or not is the fundamental cause of life and death from the eternal past.

Then he composed a poem:

The reason Buddhist practitioners do not recognize
the truth,
Is that they only recognize the intellectual mind.
But that has been the cause of life and death
from the eternal past.
The stupid, however, think that it is their original nature.

19: Do We 'Get' It?

2009-12-17T15:12:00.000-08:00

Master Joshu asked Master Nansen: What is the truth?

Master Nansen said: Balanced and constant mind is the truth.

Master Joshu said: Can we reach it intentionally?

Master Nansen said: If we have such an intention, the truth will refuse us.

Master Joshu said: If we do not have any intention to reach the truth, how can we recognize the truth itself?

Master Nansen said: The truth does not belong to whether we recognize it or not. To recognize is a kind of illusion. Not to recognize is neither good nor bad. If we truly realize the truth of no-intention, the situation would be like space, which is clear, serene, and wide. So how can we dare to discuss whether it is right or wrong?

On hearing the words of his Master, Master Joshu suddenly realized something profound.

18: Spied on by a Demon.

2009-12-13T15:49:00.000-08:00

Master Nansen Fugan of Mount Nansen in the Chi district one day went to visit a rich man who lived on his own private estate. He discovered that the owner of the land had made preparations to receive him beforehand.

Seeing this, the Master said: Usually when I travel about, no-one else knows where I am going. How is it that you knew of my coming and were prepared for it like this?

The owner said: A god of this land reported it to me last night.

The Master said: My practice is so weak that I am being spied on by a demon!

Then his Jisha (personal attendant) asked: You are a great reverend monk. Why were you spied on by that demon?

The Master said: Place a cup of rice in front of the demon’s shrine.

17: Bamboo Preaching.

2009-12-09T05:07:00.000-08:00

Master Kyogen Chikan of the To district was very clever and had a very vigorous nature. He was in the order of Master Isan Reiyu. He had a vast knowledge about many things.

One day Master Isan Reiyu said: The things you say in your everyday life are all taken from sentences and commentaries in books. You are very good at quoting facts, but now I would like to ask you to tell me something from the time when you were too young even to recognize the difference between east and west.

Then Kyogen Chikan said something in an effort to explain the principle, but his words were totally inadequate. He then searched the writings in his collection of books looking for an answer, but he could find nothing. He cried out and wept. Then he threw all his books into the fire and destroyed them.

He said: I cannot hope to understand Zen in my lifetime. I would like to go into the mountains and practice alone.

He went to Mount Buto where he built a hut on an old site where Master Nan-yo Echu had once lived. One day while he was sweeping the path a pebble struck the stem of a bamboo and made a loud sound. Kyogen Chikan was enlightened at once. He wrote this poem:

The tile struck the bamboo and my consciousness dropped away.
No longer concerned with improving body and mind,
I became like the ancient patriarchs.
Never again will my mind become dark.
Leaving no trace of my passing,
I have now gone beyond sound and form.
Throughout the country,
Those who have attained Buddhism
Will praise me as one who travels the Supreme Path.

Hearing this poem, Master Isan Reiyu said: This child has become mature.

16: Mountain-Man.

2009-12-04T08:07:00.000-08:00

One day a monk asked Master Chosa Keishin of Konan: How can we make mountains, rivers, and the earth one with us?

Chosa Keishin said: How can we make ourselves one with mountains, rivers, and the earth?

15: A Brilliant Pearl.

2009-11-30T16:25:00.000-08:00

One day a monk asked Master Gensa Shibi of the Fuku district: I have heard that you said the whole Universe in all directions is just one brilliant pearl. How should students of Buddhism understand your words?

Gensa Shibi said: The whole Universe in all directions is just a brilliant pearl. How could it be useful to understand these words with the intellect?

The next day Gensa Shibi asked the monk in turn: The whole Universe in all directions is just one brilliant pearl. How do you understand this?

The monk said: The whole Universe in all directions is just one brilliant pearl. How could it be useful to understand these words with the intellect?

Gensa Shibi said: I see that you have been struggling like a demon in a cave on a black mountain.

14: Avalance of Circumstances.

2009-11-26T17:00:00.000-08:00

One day Master Kyozan Ejaku asked Master Isan Reiyu on Mount Isan
in the Tan district: When hundreds, thousands, and tens of thousands of circumstances are coming at me at once, what can I do?

Isan Reiyu replied: Blue is a different color from yellow. Something long is different from something short. All beings have their own position in the Universe. They do not have any interest in us.

Master Kyozan prostrated himself before the Master.

13: Roundly Vomiting!

2009-11-22T16:04:00.000-08:00

One day a monk asked Master Tosu Daido of the Jo district: How is it when the moon is not yet round?

Master Tosu said: The moon swallows two or three moons.

The monk said: How about after the moon becomes round?

Master Tosu said: The moon vomits seven or eight moons.

12: Talking/ Listening.

2009-11-19T10:17:00.000-08:00

Master Tozan Ryokai of the In district preached to an assembly: When we have understood what Ascending Buddhas are through real experience, then we can talk with each other.

Then a monk asked: What sort of “talking” would that be?

Tozan Ryokai said: For example, when a monk is talking, he cannot listen.

The monk said: Can you listen under those circumstances, Master?

Tozan Ryokai said: When I am not talking, then I can listen.

11: Thwack!

2009-11-15T10:02:00.000-08:00

Master Joshu Jushin preached to a large assembly: If we are even slightly conscious of right and wrong, we loose the Buddha-mind completely. Does anyone have anything to say about this?

A monk walked forward and hit the Master's Jisha (personal assistant), saying: Why don't you answer the Master?

The Master went back to his personal room at once. After that the Jisha asked the Master to explain: Did the monk who struck me just now understand what you meant?

Joshu Jushin said: The person who was sitting could see the person who was standing. And the person who was standing could see the person who was sitting.

10: Come Here!

2009-11-13T16:03:00.000-08:00

One day a monk asked Master Seigen Gyoshi: What was Master Bodhidharma's intention in coming to China from India?

Seigen Gyoshi said: He just acted as he was.

The monk said: Would you tell me again what you said right now in words that I can understand?

Seigen Gyoshi said: Come here!

The monk approached his master.

Seigen Gyoshi said: Remember this clearly!

9: No Oil Painting?

2009-11-12T08:41:00.000-08:00

Once Master Obaku departed from mount Obaku leaving his disciples and entered Dai-an Temple. He mixed with other laborers and swept and cleaned the Buddha Hall and the Lecture Hall.

One day the Prime Minister Haikyu entered the temple and burned incense. A Shuji (temple officer) received the minister.

The minister happened to see a picture on a wall and asked: What kind of figure is this?

The monk said: This is a picture of a reverend monk.

The Prime Minister said: I can see the picture, but where is the reverend monk?

None of the monks there could answer the question.

The Prime Minister said: Are there any men of Zazen in this temple?

The monk said: There is one monk who came to work at the temple recently. He seems like a man of Zazen.

The Prime Minister said: Could you bring him here so that I may ask him the question.

The monks immediately went to look for Master Obaku. When he saw Master Obaku, the Prime Minister seemed glad and said: Just now I had a question, but none of the monks can answer it. I would like to ask you to answer in place of the others, and to give me one word which can change my life.

Master Obaku said: Prime Minister, please ask me the same question.

The Prime Minister repeated his previous question.

The Master called out loudly: Prime Minister!

The Prime Minister responded.

The Master said: Where are you?

The Prime Minister was enlightened, just as if he had received a pearl from the knot in Gautama Buddha's hair.

He said: My Master is truly a reverend monk.

Then he invited Master Obaku to open the temple.

8: Elbow Grease?

2009-11-10T14:28:00.000-08:00

Master Baso Do-itsu of Kozei in the Ko district served as Master Nangaku Ejo's jisha (personal secretary) and intimately received Gautama Buddha's mind-seal. He lived in Denpo temple constantly sitting in Zazen, and was the most outstanding of Master Nangaku's disciples. Master Nangaku knew that Master Baso had exceptional ability in studying Buddhism.

Master Nangaku went to Master Baso and asked: Now, great monk, what is you intention is practicing Zazen?

Baso Do-itsu said: I intend to become a buddha.

Nangaku Ejo picked up a piece of tile and began to polish it on a stone in front of Master Baso's hut.

Baso Do-itsu said: Master, what are you doing?

Nangaku Ejo said: I am polishing this tile to make it into a mirror.

Baso Do-itsu said: How can polishing a tile make it into a mirror?

Nangaku Ejo said: How can sitting in Zazen make you into a buddha?

Baso Do-itsu said: What is the right thing to do?

Nangaku Ejo said: When a man is riding a carriage, if the carriage does not go forward, what should we do? Strike the carriage, or strike the ox which draws the carriage?

Baso Do-itsu had no reply.

Nangaku Ejo taught further: Learning Zazen is to learn that you are a buddha in Zazen. When you learn Zazen, it is different from everyday behavior like sitting or lying down. However, when you are learning that you are a buddha in Zazen, that buddha is beyond any fixed form.

Nangaku Ejo said: We should not prefer good or bad in the Universe at the moment of the present. When you practice being buddha in zazen, you inevitably get rid of the concept of buddha. To become attached to the form of sitting, is not to have understood the principle of Zazen perfectly.

Hearing the Master's teaching, Baso felt as if he had drunk a sweet nectar.

7: "I Can't Help Falling..."

2009-11-07T10:38:00.000-08:00

Master Beiko of Keicho City told a monk to go to Master Kyozan Ejaku and ask this question: Does a man who lives in the moment of the present need enlightenment or not?

Master Kyozan Ejaku said: It is not true if I say that there is no enlightenment, but I cannot avoid falling into a dual consciousness.

Coming back to Master Beiko, the monk told him what Master Kyozan has said.

Master Beiko strongly affirmed Master Kyozan's words.

6: Pureness/ Manifestation.

2009-11-05T13:55:00.000-08:00

One day a monk asked Master Roya Ekaku of the Joshu District: It is said that the Universe is pure and shows its original form. How is it possible for it to manifest mountains, rivers, and the earth?

Roya Ekaku said: The whole Universe is pure and shows its original form. How is it possible for it to manifest mountains, rivers, and the earth!

5: One Gulp.

2009-11-03T07:42:00.000-08:00

A layman named Ho-on of the Jo district asked Master Sekito: What kind of person is independent of all the things and phenomena?

Master Sekito covered the layman's mouth with his hand.

At this, the layman realized the truth clearly and suddenly.

At another time, the layman asked the same question of Master Baso Do-itsu.

Ho-on said: What kind of person is independent of all things and phenomena?

Master Baso said: I will answer you after you have completely swallowed up all the water of the Seiko river in one gulp.

The layman realized the truth after hearing these words.

4: 'Just this!'

2009-11-02T04:57:00.000-08:00

Ryo, the Zasu (temple master) on Mount Sei in the Ko district, one day became a disciple of Master Baso.

Master Baso said: Which sutra do you lecture on?

Ryo said: The Heart Sutra.

Master Baso said: How do you lecture on it?

Ryo said: I lecture on it with my mind.

Master Baso said: Mind is the leading actor, will is a supporting player, and the six senses are the followers, so how can you lecture on the sutra?

Ryo said: If it is impossible for mind to lecture on the Sutra, then do you say that just empty space can lecture on it?

Master Baso said: Even space can lecture on it.

Ryo started to leave, swinging his wide sleeves as he went. Master Baso called out to him: Kansu!

Ryo turned his head.

Master Baso said: From birth to death it is just this!

Master Ryo realized the truth and concealed himself on Mount Sei. Nobody knows what happened to him after that.

3: Zen at a Snip & Celestial Orbs.

2009-10-31T12:42:00.000-07:00

Master Joshu Jushin of the Jo district asked Master Nansen: What happens to a person who has recognised existence? Where does he go?

Master Nansen said: He goes to live in the house of a temple supporter in front of the temple gate and becomes a castrated water buffalo.

Joshu Jushin said: I thank the Master for the teachings I have received.

Master Nansen said: Last night at midnight the moon came through my window.

2: Master Hyakujo's Sitting.

2009-10-30T14:23:00.000-07:00

Master Obaku Ki-un on Mount Obaku in the Ko district asked Master Hyakujo Ekai: When I want to share with others the teachings that you have given us, how should I teach them?

Master Hyakujo Ekai just remained seated on his cushion without saying anything.

Obaku Ki-un said: How can I teach the sons and grandsons of disciples in the future?

Master Hyakujo said: What you have said shows that you are a real person.

1: 'Whisk you Were Here'.

2009-10-29T15:15:00.000-07:00

One day Master Sekito Kisen visited Master Seigen Gyoshi of Jogo Temple on Mount Seigen in the Ki district. Master Seigen asked him: Where have you come from?

Master Sekito said: From Mount Sokei.

Master Seigen (picking up his hossu [his Zen Master's fly swatter]) said: Is there anything like this on Mount Sokei?

Master Sekito said: No, not on Mount Sokei, nor even in India.

Master Seigen said: You have never been to India, have you?

Master Sekito said: If I went to India, I may find a hossu like yours.

Master Seigen said: You have never been to India, so you should say something in accordance with your experience.

Master Sekito said: Could the Master express one or two concrete words, instead of leaving it all up to me, Kisen.

Master Seigen said: It is not that I refuse to say something for you, but if I did so you would not be able to hit the target for yourself in the future.

(Nishijima trans.)

Welcome to the Koan Workshop!

2009-10-29T05:30:00.000-07:00

Ok, 'The Koan Workshop' probably sounds grander than it's going to be, but I propose to put up a koan here from time-to-time and have a little look-see at it.

I'll be using Master Dogen's own collection of 300 koans called Shinji Shobogenzo. These are the koans which Master Dogen collected in China. He largely based his philosophical masterwork Shobogenzo on a number of them.

There are two major translations/commentaries of the collection available from Amazon: Master Nishijima's and the late Daido Loori Roshi's (trans. Tanahashi).

Master Nishijima's commentary is very clear and practical while Loori Roshi's probably retains a bit more of the old Zen spirit (he says people are talking shit a lot!)

I think it's good to read various commentaries on koans, and to come up with our own interpretations: as we're all different then the koan will necessarily 'say' different things to us; one person might notice one thing in particular while another might see something else as our individual circumstances dictate.

It seems to me, from reading Master Dogen's approach to koans in Shobogenzo, that he took up these old stories and, basically, played with them. He reimagined them somewhat, he didn't seem too threatened by the weight of tradition and, while we have the commentaries of Masters such as Master Dogen, Nishijima Roshi and Loori Roshi, we won't go too wrong if we approach them in earnest IMO. Master Dogen saw koans as expressions of the truth of reality and he encouraged us to take them up and engage their potentials in so many ways.

First koan coming soon.