Zen Buddhism and Martial Arts
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Author of this poem:
Zen Master Hsu Yun
FOR MR. HUA YENJING AT FENGLIN TEMPLE:
AN ADMONISHMENT AGAINST FEELING UPSET OVER A MONK'S BROKEN PORCELAIN BOWL
I've got a piece of porcelain.
I value it at more than a hundred billion yen.
When I show it, its brightness fills all space.
When I put it away, it leaves not a trace.
At night it's the light within books.
Open or closed, the books contain that shining.
My porcelain can't be burned by raging fire.
The greatest flood can't sweep it off or drown it.
The smartest thief can't steal it and
The cleverest of ghosts can't spirit it away.
My porcelain is the Dragon Maiden's Pearl
More valuable than several cities' worth of Jade.
It might be fit to display in Maitreya's Hall
Or on a pedestal in front of Duobao Pagoda.
Inside my porcelain bowl there's dazzling light
Outside there's just the luster of the bright clear moon
No less than the famous Pearl of Mani
It can shine through a crack and fill the Empty Realm.
There are too many details to explain.
If your tray is too full you can't carry it.
As well as I'm able, I've tried to direct you.
When you grasp this yourself, you'll know what I mean.
