Intensity of the Past
Once a man, a great criminal, a murderer, a sinner, came to be initiated by Buddha. When he came he was afraid that people might not allow him entry, the disciples might not allow him to see Buddha. So he came at … Continued
Choosing a Right Successor
A great master had a big monastery – five hundred monks – and they were all practicing the path of self-remembering. Self-remembering is one of the paths Buddha has recommended. One man entered into the monastery – he wanted to become … Continued
Door of Heaven
A Japanese king had heard of a Zen saint that had become enlightened. He went into the forest to see the saint, to be with him, to have some taste of his presence. But as he touched the Zen saint’s feet, … Continued
The Gates of Paradise
A soldier named Nobushige came to Hakuin, and asked: “Is there really a paradise and a hell?” “Who are you?” inquired Hakuin. “I am a samurai,” the warrior replied. “You, a soldier!” exclaimed Hakuin. “What kind of ruler would have … Continued
Stingy in Teaching
A young physician in Tokyo named Kusuda met a college friend who had been studying Zen. The young doctor asked him what Zen was. “I cannot tell you what it is,” the friend replied, “but one thing is certain. If … Continued