Seizei is Poor and Destitute
A monk, Seizei, asked Master Sõzan, “Seizei is poor and utterly destitute.
Will you give him support?”
Sõzan called out, “Seizei!”
Seizei responded, “Yes, teacher!”
Sõzan said, “You have just finished three cups of the finest (Hakka) wine of China, and still you say you have not yet moistened your lips!”
Here are a few Discovery Questions you may find useful in exploring this koan:
Who is Seizei’s real self?
Why is Seizei fortunate, abundant, and not alone?
Why do we constantly forget this experience in our own lives? What are the benefits of forgetfulness?
How to remind ourselves that every moment reaffirms the gift of life, a taste of the finest Hakka wine?
You may find useful Yamada Koun Roshi’s explanation of this koan which is Case 10 of the Zen classic The Gateless Gate (Mumonkan) (page 77)