Before I had studied Chan for thirty years, I saw…
““Before I had studied Chan for thirty years, I saw mountains as mountains, and rivers as rivers. When I arrived at a more intimate knowledge, I came to the point where I saw that mountains are not mountains, and rivers are not rivers. But now that I have got its very substance I am at rest. For it's just that I see mountains once again as mountains, and rivers once again as rivers.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
After decades of meditation, the practitioner sees the world directly, beyond conceptual labels, achieving peace in true perception.
In simple terms: Seeing things as they are brings inner calm.
Key Takeaway
Practice deep observation to transcend labels.
Themes
spirituality
mindfulness
perception
peace
Mood
reflective
tranquil
philosophical
Type
Mountains:1
Thirty years:1
Mountains Mountains:0
Mountains Rivers:0
Just Mountains:0
Studied Chan:0
When to use this quote
- meditation retreats
- daily mindfulness
- teaching sessions
Key Concepts
Chan Buddhism
non-dual awareness
inner stillness
Questions to Reflect On
- What labels limit your perception?
- How can you experience direct awareness?
A Different Perspective
Understanding may be elusive without guidance.