The Gateless Checkpoint of the Zen Lineage

Chan Zong Wumen Guan (J. Mumonkan)

禅宗無門關

By Wumen Huikai (1183-1260, J. Mumon Ekai)

Translated by Gregory Wonderwheel © 2007

10. Qingshui is Orphaned and Poor

Venerable Caoshan: because a monk said the question, “Quingshui is orphaned and poor. I beg, the master to give alms to aid."

Shan said, “Shui practices*."

Shui agreed.

Shan said, "You have drunk and finished three cups of wine from the Clear House of Qingyuan (the source of Qing), yet [MM 20] you say you have not moistened your lips."

Wumen says: Qingshui donated his function; what was the business of his heart-mind? Caoshan possessed a deep eye to discern function. So although it was thus, just say what is within “Shui practices” that deals with drinking wine?

The Ode says:

Poor like Fandan,

Spirit like Xiangyu;

Although without a plan of work,

He dares to participate and struggle for wealth.

[* “Practices” is the translation for the Chinese transliteration of the Sanskrit carya.]

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This page last edited September 08, 2007.