Koan – Mumonkan – Case No. 32 – A Non-Buddhist Philosopher Questions the Buddha

The Case

A non-Buddhist philosopher said to the Buddha, "I do not ask for words; I do not ask for non-
words." The Buddha just sat there. The philosopher said admiringly, "The World-honored One, with his great mercy, has blown away the clouds of my illusion and enabled me to enter the Way." And after making bows, he took his leave. Then Ananda asked the Buddha, "What did he realize, to admire you so much?" The World-honored One replied, "A fine horse runs even at the shadow of the whip."

Mumon's Comment

Ananda was the Buddha's disciple, but his understanding was not equal to that of the non-Buddhist. I want to ask you, what difference is there between the Buddha's disciple and the non-Buddhist?

Verse

On the edge of a sword, Over the ridge of an iceberg, With no steps, no ladders, Climbing the cliffs without hands.