Master Chan Master Jiming's Reply

Beyond the worldly realm, we have long lost touch. Yet I have never dared to forget the aspirations I held since childhood. Receiving your letter, together with the *First Exposition*, brings me great joy! In taking on the task of sacred learning, it is fitting that you employ such sharp insight. Since I, a humble monk, have abandoned worldly affairs, there is no need for me to argue further. If it is said that Buddhism is attacked, know that Buddhism cannot truly be broken by such attacks. Today's followers of the Buddha are many in name but few in substance; perhaps we should be grateful if external criticism can serve as a wake-up call. A knife is not sharp unless honed; a bell will not ring unless struck. Under the three emperors who suppressed Buddhism, monks were persecuted, yet the Dharma flourished ever more. I, this humble monk, will simply watch and wait. A brief reply cannot exhaust the matter.