Xuansha was informally addressing his monastics when he heard a swallow singing. He said to the assembly, “This is the profound dharma of real form. It skilfully conveys the essence of the true teaching.” He then descended from the teaching seat. A monastic asking for an explanation said, “I don’t understand.”
Xuansha said, “Go away. No one will believe you.”
Student: “What is the essence of the true teaching of the singing swallow?”
Master: “No one will believe you.”
Student: “Why does no one believe me?”
Master: “How can people believe you when even you don’t believe yourself?”
Commentary:
Why don’t you believe that your words are no less profound than the swallow’s song?
©Boo Ahm
All writing ©Boo Ahm. All images ©Simon Hathaway
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