Zen Koan & Mysticism – Mumonkan – Case No. 26 – Two Monks Roll Up the Blinds

The Case

When the monks assembled before the midday meal to listen to the lecture, the great Hogen of Seiryo pointed at the bamboo blinds. Two monks simultaneously went and rolled them up. Hogen said, "One gain, one loss."

Mumon's Comment

Tell me, who gained and who lost? If you have an eye to penetrate the secret, you will see where Seiryo failed. However, I warn you strongly against discussing gain and loss.

Verse

Rolling up the blinds, the great sky is open, But the great sky does not come up to Zen. Why don't you throw them all down from the sky, And keep your practice so close that no air can escape?