When Rinzai was a brand new monk in Obaku’s neighborhood, his behaviour was easy and direct. The pinnacle monk beneficial him, saying, “He’s a brand new monk, but he differs from all of the others.” The pinnacle monk then requested him, “How lengthy have you ever been right here?” Rinzai replied, “For 3 years.” The pinnacle monk requested, “Have you ever been for an interview but?” Rinzai stated, “By no means. I have no idea what to ask.” The pinnacle monk stated, “Why do you not go and ask the reverend head of the monastery what the essence of Buddhism is?” Rinzai accordingly did as bid, however even earlier than he had completed talking, Obaku hit him. Rinzai withdrew. When the top monk requested him how the interview had gone, he stated, “Even earlier than I had completed talking, the grasp hit me. I don’t perceive.” The pinnacle monk stated, “Merely go and ask once more.” Rinzai did so and Obaku hit him once more. It occurred once more on this approach a 3rd time, with Rinzai questioning after which being hit. Rinzai went to the top monk and stated, “You had the kindness to ship me to query the grasp. Thrice I requested, and thrice I used to be crushed. I’m afraid that I’m obstructed by my earlier karma, and don’t perceive his deep intention. So, in the intervening time, I’m resigning and am leaving.” The pinnacle monk stated, “If you’re going, it’s important to take go away of the grasp.” Rinzai bowed his acceptance and left. The pinnacle monk went directly to the grasp Obaku and stated, “That younger monk who got here and questioned you is basically suited to the Dharma. When he involves take go away of you, discover a approach for him to proceed. Planting for instances to return, he’ll develop into a giant tree that can give shade to all males.” When Rinzai got here to take go away, Obaku stated to him, “You have to not go anyplace else however to Daigu who lives close to the shoals of Goan. He’ll clarify to you.”
Commentary:
Each time Rinzai requested Obaku the essence of Buddhism, Obaku responded by hitting him with out utilizing saying any phrases, which implies that he confirmed the essence of Buddhism to him by way of hitting him. On condition that Obaku led him on to the essence of Buddhism with none verbal rationalization, he appears to have been conscious of Rinzai’s latent capability. When Obaku discovered that his expedient didn’t work then, he instructed Rinzai to go to see Daigu, since Obaku was positive that Daigu was able to serving to Rinzai. Sending Rinzai to Daigu was one other expedient utilized by Obaku. Right here, the top monk deserves credit score for having organized an interview between Obaku and Rinzai and for having inspired Rinzai to have the interview.
©Boo Ahm
All writing ©Boo Ahm. All pictures ©Simon Hathaway
