The Gateless Checkpoint of the Zen Lineage

Chan Zong Wumen Guan (J. Mumonkan)

宗無門

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.