The Story Teller's Way To Zen

Anecdotes

oi-Staff

By Staff

Wednesday, February 25, 2009, 17:37

Encho, the famous story teller held the attention of the listeners with his proficient narration. A love story narrated by Encho stirred their hearts while a story of war made an impact so great which introduced the battlefield in their mental plane.

One day Encho encountered Yamaoka Tesshu, a layman who was almost near to becoming a Zen master. "
Yamaoka said " I understand that you are the best story teller in outland and is capable of taking control of the listeners' emotions with your narration. Tell me my favourite story of the 'Peach Boy' that my mother told me when I was a little tot lying beside her. Tell it to me the way my mother did."

Encho did not find the guts to attempt the story telling. He hence requested some time to study. After several months he approached Yamaoka and requested permission to narrate the story.

"Some other day," answered Yamaoka.

Encho was highly disappointed. He still studied further and tried again, only to the rejection of Yamaoka who stopped him saying "You are not yet like my mother."

It took five years for Encho to tell the story to Yamaoka as his mother did. This way Yamaoka imparted Zen to Encho.