Zen Koan & Mysticism – Mumonkan – Case No. 10 – Zen Master Seizei Is Utterly Destitute

The Case

The monk Seizei said to zen master Sozan, "Seizei is utterly destitute. Will you give him support?" Sozan called out, "Seizei!" Seizei responded, "Yes, sir!" Sozan said, "You have finished three cups of the finest wine in China, and still you say you have not yet moistened your lips!"

Mumon's Comment

Seizei pretended to retreat. What was his scheme? Sozan had the eye of Buddha and saw through his opponent's motive. However, I want to ask you at what point did Seizei drink wine?

Verse

Poverty like Hantan's, Mind like Köu' s; With no means of livelihood, He dares to rival the richest.