大慧普覺禪師宗門武庫 1.85

1.85

Tai the Tumor was a monk from Shu. Living among the assembly, he often lamented that the Buddha Dharma was disordered and confused, with deviant views springing up like spears. He then said, “If in investigating Chan I attain true and correct knowledge and vision, I shall not spare myself vocal karma.” Thereupon he made a vow to pay homage at Mazu's stūpa, continuing for years without pause. Suddenly, one day the stūpa emitted white light, and moved by this, he had an awakening. Later, wherever he went in the monastic groves, he tested and examined the venerable elders. Passing before Mount Xuedou, he said, “This old fellow’s mouth is dripping wet [with water].” When Xuedou heard of the gist of his words, he seemed displeased. When Tai went to see Xuedou, Xuedou said, “Do you not approve of this old monk, then?” Tai said, “Indeed, the old fellow's mouth is dripping wet.” He then flapped his niṣīdana once and left. The monastic overseer was unwilling to let it go; on the road he sent men to beat Tai, breaking one of his legs. Tai said, “This was instigated by that old fellow Xuedou; some other day he must break a leg to repay me.” Later, it indeed turned out as he had said. Tai later went to the capital, abandoning restraint in the markets and shops. An official invited him to his house to make offerings to him; Tai repeatedly took his leave, but the official insisted on retaining him, showing him ever greater reverence, and often sent his concubine to serve food before him. One day, the official happened to arrive, and Tai deliberately flirted with his concubine. Because of this, the official’s courtesies changed, and Tai was then able to depart. Not many days later, he sat upright in the bustling market and passed away.