Guest guest Posted June 6, 2005 Report Share Posted June 6, 2005 Ganto, a disciple of Tokusan, would probably be unknown today, if it were not by the manner of his death. He left behind no great sutra, or anecdote as Eno, Nansen, and Joshu did. Ganto left us little more than his scream. Zen master's deaths are generally reported as dignify, sometimes, predicted and even often, orchestrated affairs. It's common for a master to leave behind a death poem. So, Ganto's death seems to stand out as the exception of the rule. Ganto was murdered by robbers while returning to his monastery. It's reported that, while being stabbed, he screamed so loud his screams were heard a mile away. Not a great show of equanimity! Surely, he would have given his meager possessions without resistance, why kill him? Was Ganto enlightened? why, then, didn't the robbers see his enlightenment? Why didn't Pilate recognize Christ divinity? Why was Ganto murdered? He died over 1100 years ago, and his screams still echoes. Maybe that's why. Pete Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.