Koan – Mumonkan – Case No. 34 – Zen Master Nansen’s “Reason Is Not the Way”

The Case

Zen master Nansen said, "Mind is not the Buddha; reason is not the Way."

Mumon's Comment

Nansen, growing old, had no shame. Just opening his stinking mouth, he let slip the family secrets. Yet there are very few who are grateful for his kindness.

Verse

The sky clears, the sun shines bright, The rain comes, the earth gets wet. He opens his heart and expounds the whole secret, But I fear he is little appreciated.