When Sukdu visited Master Hangsa, Hangsa asked him, “Where are you from?” Sukdu said, “I am from Jogae.” Hangsa, raising a cup, said, “Is there a thing like this in Jogae?” Sukdu answered, “Not only does it not exist in Jogae, but it doesn’t exist in India.” Hangsa said, “Have you been to India?” Sukdu responded, “If I had been there, it would exist.” Hangsa said, “That is not yet it. Speak again.” Sukdu said, “You must not leave it all to me. You, too, should say half a word.” Hangsa said, “I don’t mind speaking to you, but I fear that in the future there will be no one who understands.”
Student: “What did Sukdu mean by ‘If I had been there, it would exist’?”
Master: “If you move your fingertip, a country will flourish.”
Commentary:
The Buddha never comes and goes because there is nothing to go to and come from.
©Boo Ahm
All writing ©Boo Ahm. All images ©Simon Hathaway
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