Zen Koan – Hekiganroku – No. 79 – Zen Master Tosu “Every Voice Is the Buddha’s Voice”

The Case

A monk said to zen master Tosu, "It is said 'Every voice is the Buddhas voice. Is that true?" Tosu said, "Yes, it is true." The monk said, "Master, don't let me hear you breaking wind." Tosu gave him a blow with his stick. The monk asked again, "The sutra says, 'Rough words and soft words both lead to the first principle. Is that true?" Tosu said "Yes, that is true." The monk said, ''Master, may I call you a donkey?" Tosu gave him a blow with his stick.

Engo's Introduction

The Great Way manifests itself naturally; it is bound by no fixed rules. The teacher does not have to exert himself to bring his students wider control. Tell me, who has ever given such an example?

Vers

Tosu! Tosu! The wheel turns unchecked. One shot, two victories! That blow, this blow! Pity him who mocks the tide. He will fall in it and die! If he suddenly comes alive a hundred surging, roaring rivers!