Shundo David Haye – Zen Priest

Fengxhue

‘A monk asked Fengxhue, “Speech and silence are concerned with equality and differentation. How can I transcend equality and differentiation?”

Fengxhue said, “I always think of Hunan in the spring; partridges chirp among the many fragrant flowers.”‘ (The Blue Cliff Record)

The monk is stuck; Fengxhue is not just reminiscing. Speech or silence, what do you have to say?

Responses

  1. laurenbukayofabunmi Avatar
    laurenbukayofabunmi

    Letting go. As for me myself; I hold things too loosely. If I am taught the value of silence then the next day dont be surprised if you hear me screaming at the top of my lungs. It is not a clever zen move. I just find fault with everything eventually.

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  2. Brett Kempler Avatar
    Brett Kempler

    Tell me this though, did Fengxhue ever travel to Hunan?
    Where is he now?

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    1. shundo Avatar
      shundo

      Myogen Steve asked me a similar question about Shitou when I was at Tassajara. Perhaps we can go looking for him.

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  3. Brett Kempler Avatar
    Brett Kempler

    Shitou’s way is slippery, very slick.

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    1. shundo Avatar
      shundo

      Perhaps, if you take a step, all is lost.

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  4. Brett Kempler Avatar
    Brett Kempler

    In the shadows of the ghost cave, there are even smaller ghosts.

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    1. shundo Avatar
      shundo

      Boo!

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  5. Brett Kempler Avatar
    Brett Kempler

    Well answered brother. Well met.

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