▼

February 22, 2023

Nothing To Steal





Ryōkan Taigu (1758 – 1831) was a quiet and unconventional Sōtō Zen Buddhist monk who lived much of his life as a hermit. 

He is remembered for his poetry and calligraphy, which present the essence of Zen life.

Ryōkan spent much of his life living in a hut at the base of a mountain. His poetry is simple and inspired by nature.

One evening a thief visited Ryōkan's hut only to discover there was nothing to steal.

Ryōkan returned unexpectedly and caught him. 

"You have come a long way to visit me," he told the prowler, "and you should not return empty-handed. Please take my clothes as a gift." 

The thief was bewildered. He took the clothes and slunk away. 

Ryōkan sat naked, watching the moon. 

"Poor fellow," he mused, "I wish I could have given him this beautiful moon." 


This story made me ponder that it is healthy to acknowledge the precious things in my life that no thief can steal.

These are the things I cherish the most.




4 comments:

  1. Anonymous2/22/2023

    What a beautiful piece of art. It's so calming, and I feel the silvery moonlight.

    I saw a lovely moon on a walk with a good friend yesterday evening—the clouds were pinkish-grey, the moon a small fingernail of light, and Venus was bright!

    It was way better than anything I could think to buy. -Erin

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous2/22/2023

      Yes! Linda and I have been watching the moon the last two nights. Luckily we have had clear evening skies and the sight has been spectacular. The waning crescent moon with bright Venus below, and Jupiter above.

      Venus is the third brightest object in the sky after the sun and moon, and Jupiter is the second brightest planet. To see the slim crescent moon and the two brightest planets all together is a priceless treasure. Good to know someone else is noticing and appreciating this wondrous gift

      Ryokan would approve.

      - Gregg

      Delete
  2. Anonymous2/23/2023

    I didn’t know that is Jupiter—wow!! Glad to know that. -Erin

    ReplyDelete
  3. Wondering Writer2/27/2023

    It was a rare clear (and cold) evening here in western Oregon the other day, and I stepped outside to look at the beautiful waxing moon. Turning my gaze slightly to the left, I saw the gorgeous Orion constellation looming in the night sky. It is at it's best in the February sky around here, but we rarely get a cloud free night - this was a wonderful gift. - Mary

    ReplyDelete

Comments will be printed after moderation to eliminate spam. We are proudly a no buying, no selling website.

We enjoy reading all comments, and respond when time permits.

If you put a name to your comment we can all recognize you for your contribution.

Thank you for visiting and commenting.