A Zen Master's Frequent Imprisonments

Anecdotes

oi-Staff

Thursday, October 15, 2009, 17:34

A Zen master was imprisoned several times for small thefts. His thefts became a routine repetition and he was in and out of the jail on and off. The judges themselves got worried as the master admitted his petty thefts each time he was caught.

The neighbours of the master were puzzled and wondered as to why he had to steal small things and get imprisoned. One day the neighbours approached the master and asked the him to stay away from stealing and that they would take care of all his necessities.

The Zen master replied that he stole several times as he was more concerned about the prisoners in the jail who needed guidance. He further clarified that people who were out had masters to help them unlike the ones in the jail. He also vehemently said that he would continue with his thefts for the benefits of the prisoners who he pointed out as beautiful and innocent souls who were far more innocent .