Ordinary man to Zen Master Ikkyu: ‘‘Master, please write…
““Ordinary man to Zen Master Ikkyu: ‘‘Master, please write the maxims exemplifying the highest wisdom.’’ Ikkyu immediately writes the ideogram ‘‘Attention,’’ with his brush. The man asks, ‘‘Will you please add something more?’’ Ikkyu now writes, twice: ‘‘Attention. Attention.’’ The man remarks, with an edge, ‘‘There’s really not much depth or subtlety here.’’ Ikkyu then writes the same ideogram three times: ‘‘Attention. Attention. Attention.’’ The man now demands: ‘‘What does that word ‘Attention’ mean, anyway?’’ Ikkyu replies: ‘‘Attention means attention.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Ikkyu illustrates that true attention is simple and repetitive; depth emerges from sustained focus, not elaborate explanation.
In simple terms: Attention is repeated focus.
Key Takeaway
Practice sustained attention to uncover depth.
Themes
mindfulness
simplicity
focus
Mood
contemplative
instructive
Type
Zen
philosophical
When to use this quote
- meditation
- learning
- teaching
- art criticism
Key Concepts
Zen
philosophy
cognitive science
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “attention” mean in your life?
- How can you balance simplicity with depth?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on repetition can become mechanical, losing insight.