an old writer and his words

  • A MONESTARY HEAD IS SELECTED 鐵笛倒吹 七十四

    A starving man will prefer a crust of bread over an invitation to a future feast. When asked what you seek, what do you say? When asked why you seek it, what is your answer? When you expect nothing you will not be disappointed. A relection on case 74 of the Iron Flute.

    Lou Faber

  • NO TWO

    If you ask me whether a dog has Buddha nature, I will stare back at you in total silence. If you ask again, or implore an answer, I will smile at you, offer gassho and a bow. If you ask yet again, I will turn away and you will be left with a box into…

    Lou Faber

  • Q AND A: SOMEWHERE

    Somewhere deep within complete uncertainty lies the answer to the question we are reluctant or unwilling to ask. The only problem is that in peeling back the fear and trepidation we risk reopening wounds we have long forgotten, that are scarred over. Is it the answer we fear or the question, or the inability to…

    Lou Faber

  • SANSHU’S BLINDNESS 正法眼蔵 四十

    If you come forward and ask no question, the master will give you an answer, but if you approach with a question, the master will strike you with the stick. It is only when your eyes are blinded that you can take up the master’s staff and all is clearly seen.

    Lou Faber

  • CHU TI’S ONE-FINGER CH’AN

    When you believe you have found your teacher, ask him a question. If he gives you an answer, be certain that he is not your teacher. But if he holds up just a single finger, will you pause in false anticipation, or do you gaze at his raised finger and carefully consider the answer. A…

    Lou Faber