Do not be deceived by others!

Linji said, ”Past worthies since ancient times all had ways of developing people. What I teach people just requires you not to allow yourself to be confused by others. Act when necessary, without further hesitation.”

This reminds me of the following case from Wumen’s Checkpoint:

Zuigan called out to himself every day: “Master.” Then he answered himself: “Yes, sir.” And after that he added: “Become sober.” Again he answered: “Yes, sir.”” And after that,” he continued, “do not be deceived by others.” “Yes, sir; yes, sir,” he answered.

The commonality between the cases is shouldering the responsibility not to be deceived by what people are saying. Religion on the other hand involves placing supernatural faith in what people tell you is real, what is important, and how to go about living your life.

Linji and Zuigan belong to a tradition that rejected the religious authority people demanded they play into.

Submitted May 24, 2023 at 08:49PM by ThatKir https://ift.tt/NOky42U