an old writer and his words

A MONK IN MEDITATION 鐵笛倒吹 七十語

Lou Faber

A man may own
may volumes of great knowledge
and never have time to read.
An illiterate may take such books
and fashion a stool
on which to sit in meditation.

Which of these is truly wise
which the greatest fool.
Wipe your mouth
with this page
at the conclusion
of the meal.

A reflection on Case 75 of the Iron Flute Koans.
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2 responses to “A MONK IN MEDITATION 鐵笛倒吹 七十語”

  1. Joe Avatar
    Joe

    I seem to find myself in the former category.
    To quote a monk who’s name escapes me:
    “Last year I was just a foolish monk. This year…no change.”

    Reply
  2. Joey Blue Avatar
    Joey Blue

    Nice one – thanks for sharing. Reminds me of how I want to buy a book collection just for decoration!

    Reply

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