Prior to heaven and earth
There is a reality
even prior to
heaven and earth
Indeed, it has no form,
much less a name.
Eyes fail to 'see' it
It has no voice
for 'ears' to detect ...
To call it 'Mind' - or 'Buddha'
violates its nature
For it then becomes like
a visionary flower
in the air
It is not 'Mind' -
nor 'Buddha'
Absolutely quiet -
and yet illuminating
in a mysterious way
It allows itself - to be 'perceived'
only by the 'clear-eyed'
Dai-o Kokushi ~ (1235-I308)
Awakening To The Dream 89
even prior to
heaven and earth
Indeed, it has no form,
much less a name.
Eyes fail to 'see' it
It has no voice
for 'ears' to detect ...
To call it 'Mind' - or 'Buddha'
violates its nature
For it then becomes like
a visionary flower
in the air
It is not 'Mind' -
nor 'Buddha'
Absolutely quiet -
and yet illuminating
in a mysterious way
It allows itself - to be 'perceived'
only by the 'clear-eyed'
Dai-o Kokushi ~ (1235-I308)
Awakening To The Dream 89