虛堂和尚語錄 2.79

2.79

At the informal gathering on the Winter Solstice, a monk asked: "Before the black beans have sprouted, what then?" The master said: "Black scales wrinkle the ground." The monk said: "What about after they sprout?" The master said: "Black scales wrinkle the ground." The monk said: "What about the time of sprouting and not sprouting?" The master said: "Black scales wrinkle the ground." The monk said: "If so, what distinction is there?" The master said: "In the place where there is no distinction, recognize that black scales wrinkle the ground." The monk said: "Tonight, this student bows to become prime minister while clad in plain white." He then bowed. Another monk came forward and asked: "What is the matter of winter's arrival? An ancient worthy said: 'The capital produces rhubarb.' What is the meaning of this?" The master said: "Seeking length in what is short." The monk said: "If someone suddenly asks the upādhyāya about the matter of winter's arrival, what then?" The master said: "Adding clothes after snow is definitely cold." The monk said: "So the ancient worthy is still here after all." The master said: "You are An Lushan."