The Gateless Gate/An Oak Tree In The Garden
A monk asked Joshu why Bodhidharma came to China.
Joshu said: "An oak tree in the garden."
- Mumon’s comment: If one sees Joshu's answer clearly, there is no Shakyamuni Buddha before him and no future Buddha after him.
- Words cannot describe everything.
- The heart's message cannot be delivered in words.
- If one receives words literally, he will be lost,
- If he tries to explain with words, he will not attain enlightenment in this life.