Case 86 - Book of Equanimity
Rinzai's Great Enlightenment
Main Case
Attention! Rinzai asked Master Obaku, "What is the ultimate meaning of Buddhism?" In response, Obaku hit him. This happened three times, so he left Obaku and went to see Master Daigu. Daigu asked, "Where do you come from?" Rinzai replied, "I came from Obaku." Daigu asked, "What did Obaku have to say?" Rinzai said, "I asked, ‘What is the ultimate meaning of Buddhism?’ three times, and three times I was struck. I don't know if I was at fault or not." Daigu exclaimed, "Obaku is so grandmotherly to be so very kind to you, but you still come and ask if you are at fault or not." At these words, Rinzai attained great enlightenment.