By Their Free Knowing They Will Get It

CASE

Bishop Ippo Shaku visited Tassajara and asked Shunryu Suzuki, “What is the future of Buddhism in America?” Suzuki said, “I don’t know.” The Bishop asked if Americans understood him. Suzuki Roshi said, “Whatever people understand is OK. By their free knowing they will get it.” The Bishop said, “Zazen is so uncomfortable for westerners, maybe there is some other way.” Suzuki Roshi replied, “That’s all I know. That’s what my teacher taught me.”

COMMENTARY

Bishop Ippo Shaku was a Nichiren priest, a sect emphasizing the Lotus Sutra. He was a friend of Suzuki Roshi who emphasized sitting meditation. They respected each other greatly.

Cloud and water gatherers (monks are sometimes described this way), meet and take stock of the world and their teaching.

Each one risks his truth, trusting no thing. “By their free knowing they will get it.” When the dharma is out of the bag, no one can control it, yet the breeze feels fresher.

VERSE by Dairyu

When two Buddhas meet
Their faith opens 1,000 lotuses
There aren’t enough fingers
To point to the moon