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

21. Yunmen's Shit Scraper

[MM32]

Yunmen: Because a monk asked, "So what is Buddha?"

Men said, “A dry shit scraper.”

Wumen says: Yunmen may name it, but a poor family has difficulty preparing simple food, and a hurried business is inadequate grass writing. He moved to relieve himself by using a “shit scraper” next to prop up the gate and hang the doors. One can see the Buddha Dharma waxes and wanes.

The Ode says

Flashing – lightening -- shines;

Striking -- stone -- transforms;

To criticize – obtain the eye,

To stop mistakes – pass through.

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This page last edited September 08, 2007.