萬松老人評唱天童覺和尚頌古從容庵錄 4.12

4.12

Case: Xuefeng was serving as cook under Deshan (not exerting effort when young). One day the meal was late. Deshan carried his bowl up to the Dharma Hall (not resting his mind when old). Xuefeng said, 'The bell has not rung, and the drum has not sounded, yet this old fellow carries his bowl—where are you going?' (having taught the child so well that he can curse his mother). Deshan then returned to the Abbot's quarters (all contained in speechlessness). Xuefeng related this to Yantou (the family turns contrary and the house is in disorder). Yantou said, 'Even great Deshan does not understand the last word' (the father covers for the son; straightness lies right therein). Deshan heard of this and ordered an attendant to call Yantou, asking, 'Do you not approve of this old monk?' (pouring oil to put out a fire). Yantou then disclosed his meaning (private whispers among mortals sound like thunder to heaven). Deshan then desisted (indeed, he did not understand). When the next day arrived, he ascended the hall, and it was truly different from usual (trimming the sails to the wind). Yantou clapped his hands and laughed, saying, 'How wonderful that the old fellow understands the last word! (washing dirty linen in public). Hereafter, no one in the world will be able to do anything to him' (why are the nostrils in my hands?).