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

18. Dongshan 's Three Pounds

Venerable Dongshan: Because a monk asked, "To what is Buddha comparable?", Shan said, “Three pounds of flax.”

Wumen says: Old man Dongshan was able to interview with some clam Ch’an. He only opened a little bit but revealed and put forth his liver and intestines. So, although you indeed listen, just say what place do you face to see Dongshan?

The Ode says

"Three pounds of flax” suddenly issued.

The words are intimate; the meaning is more intimate.

Those who arrive at theories of right and wrong,

Are thus people of right and wrong.

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This page last edited September 08, 2007.