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The Gates
of Paradise
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A soldier named Nobushige
came to Zen monk Hakuin,
and asked:
“Is there really a paradise and a hell?”
“Who are you?” inquired Hakuin.
“I am a samurai,” the warrior replied.
|  |
 |
“You, a soldier!” exclaimed Hakuin.
“What kind of ruler would have you as his guard?
Your face looks like that of a beggar.”
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| Nobushige became so angry that he began to draw his sword, |  |
 | but Hakuin continued: “So you have a sword! Your weapon is probably much too dull to cut off my head.” |
| As Nobushige drew his sword Hakuin remarked: |  |
 | “Here open the gates of hell!” |
| At these words the samurai, perceiving the master’s discipline, sheathed his sword and bowed. |  |
 | “Here open the gates of paradise,” said Hakuin. |
Enjoy
© 2018 MU-Peter Shimon
