Blue Cliff Record 36
Following the Spring
Master Chosha returns from a walk. The head monk asks where he went. "Following the spring grasses, then back with the falling blossoms." The monk says, "That's very much like spring." Chosha replies, "Better than the autumn dew on the lotus."
Yuanwu Keqin
·
Changsha, China
·
c. 850
Commentary by Engo
Points out that Chosha's answer is poetry that also dodges the question. The head monk's "like spring" is a compliment that gets turned around.
Commentary by Traditional
Chosha takes the monk past simple seasonal descriptions. He points straight toward a timeless state that stays clear and bright long after the beautiful things fade away.
Verse by Setcho
Celebrates the season itself, with grasses, blossoms, and a feeling that spring is wandering in the master's own mind.