虛堂和尚語錄 3.95

3.95

He also cited: "Because a monk came to imperial audience, Emperor Taizong of our dynasty bestowed a seat on him and asked: 'Where do you come from, sir?' The monk reported: 'Woyun Hermitage on Mount Lu.' The Emperor said: 'Deep in the sleeping clouds you did not pay court to Heaven; why have you arrived here?' The monk had no answer. Later, Great Master Xuedou Mingjue spoke in his place: 'It is hard to escape the ultimate transformation.'" The Master said: "Mingjue indeed did not forget it even while eating and resting. Had he asked this humble monk back then: 'Deep in the sleeping clouds you did not pay court to Heaven; why have you arrived here?' I would have simply bowed, stepped forward, and said: 'I request Your Majesty to hang high the heavenly mirror.' I guarantee the imperial mood would have been immensely pleased."