The Core
Shaka went up to the seat, but he did not speak any words. He just came down from the seat. This koan is usually said "the sermon without words." In this dictionary, we define this Koan as a practical lesson. Truth is shown not only by words but also by our attitudes and actions.
Q&A
- Q: Why is it important that Shaka did not use words?
- A: It is because words are just like signs. They are not the truth itself. Shaka showed the truth by his action of coming down from the seat. If we understand this, we can find Zen in our daily lives, not just in books.
