Dogen Zenji

“This patch-robed monk’s staff is as black as lacquer.

It is not in the class of ordinary worldly wood.

But breaks apart traps and snares and actualizes reality.

In the snow, a plum blossom suddenly opens on a branch tip.”

 

“Without begrudging any effort in nurturing the way, for you I will demonstrate the precise meaning of the ultimate truth of Buddha. It is: if you do not hold onto a single phrase or half a verse, a bit of talk or a small expression, in this lump of red flesh you will have some accord with the clear, cool ground. If you hold on to a single word or half a phrase of the Buddha ancestors’ sayings or the teaching stories from the ancestral gate, they will become dangerous poisons. If you want to understand this mountain monk’s activity, do not remember these comments. Truly avoid being caught up in thinking.”