Jun 11, 2023
Martin Goodson
Editor of The Zen Gateway website and practitioner of Zen Buddhism.
Shishi and the Knife
Gateway Talks
Shi Tou asks Shishi for a knife but instead receives illumination. We take a look at what this unusual exchange is all about.
One day, while wondering in the mountains, Shi Tou said to Shishi,
"‘just lop off that branch of the tree in front of me - its hindering me”
"I didn’ t bring a knife”,’replied Shishi.’ Shi Tou pulled out a knife and gave it Shishi.
"Why not let this come to me?’"said Shishi.
"What would you use it for?’"asked Shi Tou.
Then Shi Tou had a great awakening.
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