Instruction:

Passing beyond life and death, he freely brings forth the hidden activity. With utter ease, he cuts through iron and nails. Wherever he may be, he covers heaven and covers the earth. Just say, whose doing is this? To test, I cite this. Look!

Case:

Unmon asked a monk, "Where have you come from?" The monk said, "Saizen." Unmon said, "What does Saizen have to say these days?" The monk stretched out his hands. Unmon gave him a slap. The monk said, "I have something to say." Unmon, however, stretched out his hands. The monk was silent. Unmon hit him.

Verse:

He simultaneously takes hold of the tiger's head and tail.

His severe dignity extends through the forty provinces.

He for his part asks, "Does no one know?" How truly dangerous it is!

The Master says, "I let one line go by."

List of posted koans, and introduction to Hekiganroku