The Core
The Shoyoroku Case 13: Linji’s Blind Ass is a koan in which, in response to Linji's last words, "Do not destroy my true teachings," Sansheng shouts "Katz!" to show the living function of the Buddha-dharma beyond words.
Usually, people say that "it represents the transmission of the True Dharma from master to disciple." However, in this dictionary, we define it as a practical lesson: "if you have the action of Zazen, a systematic description of words and the study of doctrine are unnecessary."
Q&A
- Q: Why do you run this blog when you state that a conceptual system of words is unnecessary?
- A: Because while it is practically unnecessary, it is convenient as a guide.
The truth of Zen is embodied through concrete actions like leaving home, keeping the precepts, and practicing Zazen; therefore, studying conceptual systems of words in your head is inherently unneeded. However, for us ordinary people to understand the meaning of those actions and practice them with conviction, it is also true that the role of words for understanding is immensely valuable.
