虛堂和尚語錄 2.107

2.107

The Master then took up his staff and said: "To go along just like this is already to produce branches from the knots; if you further weigh the short and discuss the long, how would it merely be ten thousand miles to Yazhou? Therefore it is said: Beneath the Sun Gate, every day is three autumns; before the Bright Moon Hall, every moment is nine summers. What need is there to notch the boat to seek the sword, or climb a tree to catch a fish? In the Western Heaven and in this land, the Buddhadharma has sunk flat; bhikṣus of the final age have no shame at all. Why speak of the two words 'correct cause' as words of praise and reward? The ancients did not know how to adapt to capacities; the two groves only aimed for real effect. Although it is like this, tell me, why does not an inch of grass grow in the place where the seven Buddhas walked? Quickly come forward and offer a turning word to make up for your doubts during the nine summers' retreat." He struck with his staff.