Discourse at Xinglong Chan Monastery in Wan County

In the spring of the 6th year of the Kangxi reign, the Master heeded the invitation of Governor Luo and other venerable figures, and ascended the Dharma seat on the 15th day of October to commence the meditation retreat. Approaching the Dharma throne, he said: "This precious seat is firm as a rock, enduring through endless ages. Many have exhausted their schemes yet could not ascend it; many have devised every stratagem yet could not occupy it. Today, as this mountain monk arrives, at this very moment, how shall we discern the truth? Step by step we climb higher, looking up as our guide." He then mounted the seat.

Holding incense, he declared: "This incense, its roots pierce the four seas, its leaves cover the nine provinces. Offered into the censer, it is dedicated to pray for the long life of the present Emperor and the eternal prosperity of the Crown Prince. This incense, its spiritual root planted, nurtured by the seal of Buddhahood, neither like sandalwood in fragrance nor shared in essence with Bull's Head incense, is offered on behalf of all court officials, the honorable magistrates of this county, and Governor Luo, the sponsor of this assembly. May they transcend the sea of birth and death, become everlasting great protectors of the Dharma, always serving as guardians, truly pillars that uphold the heavens. This incense, extended in times of war and turmoil, connecting amidst the smoke of conflict, is now offered for the third time. Today, I reveal it before the assembly, specifically for the Great Master Erdai, the 33rd Patriarch of the Linji lineage, to repay the kindness of his Dharma-milk."

Adjusting his robe and taking his seat, after the Head Monastic struck the gavel, the Master said: "A weary old fisherman sits by the fishing platform, amidst misty waves, free from worldly dust. Lightly he discerns the presence or absence of intention; the daring whale leaps onto the hook." Raising his staff as if casting a line, he asked: "Is there anyone? Is there anyone?" Questions were too numerous to record.

He then said: "See the true reality on the tip of a single hair—do not seek outside. Reveal yourself uniquely among all species—do not search afar. It stands distinct and clear, neither lacking nor superfluous; it is transcendent and magnificent, neither overflowing nor leaking. Straightforwardly, like the full moon on a mid-autumn night, clear and solitary, the light of a thousand lamps illuminates one room together, consistent from beginning to end, no distinction between before and after. Even so, only those who attain it understand; only those who realize it know. If you were to pause in contemplation, it would be precisely the time for a thorough beating. Why is this? Even the yellow-haired blue-eyed (Buddhas) would not dare to show their teeth face-to-face; even Wu Qi and Zhang Liang would not dare to cast their eyes upon it. As it is said, only an extraordinary person knows extraordinary matters. Great Assembly, now that Governor Luo has invited this mountain rustic to ascend the hall and initiate the teaching at Xinglong Chan Monastery, what is the verse for blessing the nation? 'The carved bow has been laid aside, the smoke of war has ceased; a thousand miles of songs celebrate peace.'"