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Thu Jan 13 12:18:36 AM EST 2022
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I saw a video of a fellow who apparently wanted to make two
points clear to whomever would listen to him: First, he
wanted to demonstrate that he is in fact a bona fide “dharma
heir” in a particular zen lineage; and, secondly, he made
his assertion that, as of the date of the recording, he had
not appointed any dharma heir of his own.

The evidence of transmission? Stuff. Lots of stuff.
Certificates, calligraphy, signatures, and seals. He held
them up to the camera to show whomever would accept them and
bear witness.

Elsewhere, there are people who are much more concerned with
another form of transmission and arguing what it all means.
Each “side” struggles to make their points, focused upon
casting the others in a different light. For those in the
fight, nothing is off-limits. Nothing is sacred.

Once I spent time with a Korean fellow. He made a habit of
wearing funky grey pajamas of sorts and running ceremonies
in the out-building holding a golden Buddha statue with all
the trimmings. I personally enjoyed the meditation time, the
tea, and conversations with the fellow. He was kind to me.
Not much more mattered.

One day, in a small group, I referred to him as “the monk”
as I often did. To be fair, most everyone referred to him as
“seunim,” Korean for… a Buddhist monk. But in that moment,
he interrupted with deliberate seriousness that everyone
present could hear: “That’s ‘Zen Master.’”

And he may have been, right up until he said so.

Game on! Or, maybe not. In his own vernacular, was he
attached to this title, whatever it means? Was he using the
role skillfully for the benefit of others; or was it for
deception, abuse, or self-enrichment? Maybe he was offering
a challenge, simply interrogating me, or the room? Who
knows?

Do you see my point? Or do you see yours?