Linji’s True Dharma Eye (1) – Zen Fools
When Linji was about to pass away, Sansheng was the head of the monastery. Linji addressed him, saying, “After I depart from this world, you must not let my True Dharma Eye be extinguished.” Sansheng replied, “How could I ever let the Master’s True Dharma Eye be extinguished?” Linji asked, “If someone suddenly asks you about it, what will you say?” Sansheng gave a shout. Linji said, “Who would have thought that my true Dharma Eye would vanish with this blind donkey?”
Student: “What is Linji’s True Dharma Eye?”
Master: “Linji handed it to Sansheng.”
Commentary:
A thief hands over stolen goods to his son who is also a thief. No one catches them giving and taking whilst many people are watching them.
©Boo Ahm
All writing ©Boo Ahm. All images ©Simon Hathaway
