虛堂和尚語錄 8.47

8.47

Ascending the hall: "The sounding of bells and drums can regulate ritual and music; the balance of scales can determine drams and ounces. Yet we bhikṣus, as disciples of the Buddha, possess the Way and virtue, benevolence and righteousness. The summer retreat has already been entered for a month, yet karmic consciousness is vast and boundless, entirely beyond our own control; how lamentable indeed! Suddenly there is one with teeth like a grove of swords and a mouth like a basin of blood, who comes forth shouting immediately, slapping without hesitation. This old monk says, 'Hold on a moment, I am seventy-seven this year; grant me some leeway.' That fellow turns his head, takes a glance, laughs coldly, and walks away. Now tell me, what was he laughing at?" Striking with his staff: "'She threw me a peach, and I requited her with a fine gem.'"