Instruction:

When a fish moves, the water is muddied; when a bird flies, feathers drop. You plainly discern host and guest, clearly distinguish black from white. It is like a clear mirror on a stand or a bright jewel in the palm of the hand. A man of Kan appears; a man of Ko comes. It is shown in sound; it is revealed in color. Why is it like this? I will try to show you an example, look!

Case:

A monk asked Daizui, "When the great kalpa fire flames up, the Thousand Great Worlds will be destroyed. I wonder if THAT will also be destroyed or not." Daizui said, "Destroyed." The monk said, "If so, will THAT be gone with the other?" Daizui said, "Gone with the other."

Verse:

In the middle of the glow of the kalpa fire, raising the question,

The monk is still loitering between the two barriers.

What a wonderful phrase, "Gone with the other"!

Ten thousand miles he wavers back and forth alone.

Introductory post to Hekiganroku

List of posted koans.

Extended commentary on verse, case and introduction.