圓悟佛果禪師語錄 16.32

16.32

[The Master] cited: "Zhaozhou said: 'This old monk is going to answer questions; let someone who knows how to ask bring forward a question.' A monk came forward and bowed. Zhaozhou said: 'Lately I cast a brick to draw jade, but only drew an unbaked tile.' Later, Fayan cited this and asked Jue the Iron Mouth: 'What does this mean?' Jue said: 'I will offer the Master an analogy: it is like the state appointing a general.' When it is asked: 'Who can go?' someone says: 'I can go.' The reply is: 'You cannot go.' Fayan said: 'I understand.'" The Master said: "All quarters say that Zhaozhou had the function that excels the herd, and for a time his arrangement was undeniably free and easy. This monk wanted to beat time and knock on the barrier, but within the flash of lightning he was suddenly struck down, his hands and feet helpless. Jue the Iron Mouth was able to draw an analogy from near at hand without letting down the family reputation; Fayan had the mirror that penetrates all directions, and immediately knew the crux. Dare I ask: since he was a lineage master, why in casting a brick did he only draw an unbaked tile? Try to investigate and see."