Buddha Quote by Nyogen Senzaki and Paul Reps
““13. A Buddha In Tokyo in th Meiji era there lived two prominent teachers of opposite characteristics. One, Unsho, an instructor in Shingon, kept Buddha's precepts scrupulously. He never drank intoxicants, nor did he eat after eleven o'clock in the morning. The other teacher, Tanzan, a professor of philosophy at the Imperial University, never observed the precepts. When he felt like eating he ate, and when he felt like sleeping in the daytime he slept. One da Unsho visited Tanzan, who was drinking wine at the time, not even a drop of which is supposed to touch the tongue of a Buddhist. "Hello, brother," Tanzan greeted him. "Won't you have a drink?" "I never drink!" exclaimed Unsho solemnly. "One who never drinks is not even human," said Tanzan. "Do you mean to call me inhuman just because I do not indulge in intoxicating liquids!" exclaimed Unsho in anger. "Then if I am not human, wht am I?" "A Buddha," answered Tanzan.””
About This Quote
Source Story: Buddhist Parable, early 20th century collection by Paul Reps
Strict adherence to rules can miss the spirit of enlightenment, while flexibility can embody true wisdom.
In simple terms: Rules vs. insight.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the essence, not just the letter, of teachings.
Themes
spirituality
flexibility
humility
Mood
thoughtful
philosophical
Type
parable
inspirational
When to use this quote
- teaching
- personal growth
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Buddhism
philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “human” mean in your practice?
- How can you balance discipline with compassion?
A Different Perspective
Rigid literalism may alienate seekers and hinder compassion.
