Suksang’s ‘the meaning of the Patriarch in the teachings of the Sutras’ – Zen Fools

A monk asked Master Suksang, “Is there also the meaning of the Patriarch in the teachings of the Sutras?” The master answered, “Yes, there is.” The monk asked again, “What is the meaning of the Patriarch that is within the teachings of the Sutras?” The master said, “Don’t seek it in books.”

Student: “What did Suksang mean by ‘Don’t seek it in books’?”

Master: “He showed the meaning of the Patriarch in the teachings of the Sutras.”

Commentary:

Don’t try to find yourself in your curriculum vitae.

©Boo Ahm

All writing ©Boo Ahm. All images ©Simon Hathaway