Next time Quote by Paul Reps
““Mamiya concentrated upon what the sound of one hand might be. “You are not working hard enough,” his teacher told him. “You are too attached to food, wealth, things, and that sound. It would be better if you died. That would solve the problem.” The next time Mamiya appeared before his teacher he was again asked what he had to show regarding the sound of one hand. Mamiya at once fell over as if he were dead. “You are dead all right,” observed the teacher. “But how about that sound?” “I haven’t solved that yet,” replied Mamiya, looking up. “Dead men do not speak,” said the teacher. “Get out!” 43.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: “The Sound of One Hand” by Paul Reps, 1965
A teacher challenges a student to grasp an impossible concept, leading to a paradoxical lesson about attachment and the limits of intellect.
In simple terms: A teacher asks a student to understand something impossible, exposing attachment.
Key Takeaway
Let go of attachment to find true insight.
Themes
spirituality
paradox
attachment
learning
Mood
contemplative
serene
Type
paradoxical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- Meditation practice
- philosophical discussion
- personal crisis
- creative problem solving
Key Concepts
Zen
mindfulness
nondualism
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “the sound of one hand” symbolize for you?
- How can attachment hinder understanding?
A Different Perspective
The lesson may be misinterpreted as endorsing self‑destruction rather than letting go.
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