BLUE CLIFF RECORD [HEKIGAN ROKU]

Case 1:

Bodhi Dharma’s Vast Emptiness

The Emperor Bu (or Ryu) asked Bodhi Dharma, “What is the first principle of the holy teaching?”

Bodhi Dharma said, “Vast emptiness, nothing holy.”

The Emperor said, “Who is this person confronting me?”

Bodhi Dharma said, “I do not know him.”

The Emperor could not reach an accord.

Bhodi Dharma then crossed the river and went on to Gi. The Emperor later took up this matter with Shiko.

Shiko said, “Does your majesty know that person yet?"

The Emperor said, "I don't know him."

Shiko said, “That was the Bodhisattva Kannon conveying the mind-seal of the Buddha."

The Emperor felt regretful, and at once sought to have a messenger dispatched to urge him to return.

Shiko said, “There is no use in sending a messenger. Even if everyone in the country went after him, he would not return.”