When the master takes his seat
what do you expect of him?
Do you watch his posture
or how his hands are set.
Do you stare at his lips
and what do you hear
when they move, but no sound
comes from his throat.
Listen carefully, for here
the dharma unfolds
like the first chrysanthemum.
A reflection on Case 79 of the Shobogenzo (Dogen’s True Dharma Eye)
If you want to ask
of the path, do so,
only without breaking
the silence of the zendo.
Seek the answer
in a library without books,
take sustenance
from an empty bowl.
Bodhi is a glittering gem
that cannot be seen
that cannot be held—
do not stumble over it.
YAKUSAN HOLDS IT 鐵笛倒吹 十
Sit just above
the peak of the highest mountain
and reach up with open fingers,
what will you grasp?
Walk slowly across
the floor of the deepest sea,
what do you see below you?
If you have
three daughters
is any one
less beautiful
than the others?
JOSHU COVERS HIS HEAD 鐵笛倒吹 十一
When you enter a room
and sit with your teacher
what is it you expect?
He will not follow your breath
nor should you count his,
simply cover your head
and retreat.
He will offer nothing
and that is
quite everything
you require.
an old writer and his words 