The Main Case
A monk said to Joshu, “I have entered this monastery. I beg you to teach me”
Joshu asked. “Have you eaten your rice-gruel?”
“I have,” replied the monk.
“Then,” said Joshu, “go and wash your bowl.”
The monk was enlightened.
Mumon's Commentary
Joshu opened his mouth and showed his gallbladder, his heart, and his liver. If the monk didn’t really grasp the truth, he mistook the bell for a pot.
Closing Verse
He made it all so clear,
It takes a long time to catch the point.
If you realize that it’s foolish to look for fire with a fire
The meal won’t take long to cook.
He made it all so clear,
It takes a long time to catch the point.
If you realize that it’s foolish to look for fire with a fire
The meal won’t take long to cook.
(translation by RH Blyth; illustration by Mark T Morse)
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