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

30. As It Is Heart-Mind, As It Is Buddha

Mazu: Because Damei asked, "So, what is Buddha?"

Zu said, "As it is heart-mind is Buddha."

Wumen says: If you can receive straight below and are able to rob by inquiring, then you wear the Buddha's clothes, eat the Buddha's meals, speak the Buddha's words, walk the Buddha's walk, and as it is you are also Buddha. In that case, although there is comparing, how many people has Damei led to [MM43] firmly believe the error that the stars are in a shallow bowl. Striving to know the Way, if you speak the single word “Buddha,” then wash out your mouth for three days. If there is a single fellow you see saying, "As it is Mind is Buddha," then cover up your ears and run.

The Ode says

Blue sky; clear day.

To cut close, abstain from seeking.

To ask further, “So, what?”

Is embracing stolen goods while calling out “Injustice!”

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This page last edited January 24, 2009.