BodhiTales

A collection of Buddhist stories for children and young adolescents.
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The Buddha: Section I
The Buddha: Section II
Zen Tales: Section I
A Beggar's Life
A Book
A Cup of Tea
A Debate for a Lodging
A Letter to a Dying Man
All Sentient Beings
Banzo's Sword
Calling Card
Every Moment Zen
Inch Time Foot Gem
Is That So?
Kakua’s One Note
Learning to be Silent
Mokusen's Hand
Muddy Road
Zen Tales: Section II
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A Book
 
A Book

Zen master Mu-nan said to Shoju, his one successor,

“I am getting old. You will carry on the teaching. Here is a book that has been passed down from master to disciple for seven generations now. I have also added my comments in it.”

“I have received your Zen without writing. I am satisfied.”

“Keep the book as a symbol of having received the lineage of teachings.”

The moment Shoju was given the book, he tossed it into a nearby fire.

“What are you doing?” shouted Mu-nan.

“What are you saying?” shouted back Shoju.