Zen Koan – Hekiganroku – No. 68 – Zen Master Kyozan Asks Sansho’s Name

The Case

Zen Master Kyozan asked Sansho, "What is your name?" Sansho said, "Ejaku!" Kyozan said, "Ejaku is my name!" Sansho said, "My name is Enen!" Kyozan laughed heartily.

Engo's Introduction

Commanding the center of the heavens overturning the axis of the earth. Capturing the tiger, distinguishing dragon from the snake. Displaying such abilities, one can for the first time be called active and enlightened. And then words can meet words, spirit meet spirit. Tell me, who has ever been like that?

Verse

Both grasping, both releasing-what fellows! Riding the tiger-marvelous skill! The laughter ends, traceless they go. Infinite pathos, to think of them!