Zengetsu, a Chinese master during the Tang Dynasty, wrote the following advice to his students.
While living in the world, do not become attached to its ashes—this is the way of a true Zen student.
When you see another doing good, support him by following his example. When you hear about the mistakes of another, try not to surpass him.
Even if you are alone in a dark room, be as you would before the noblest guest. Express your feelings, but no more than is characteristic of your true nature.
Poverty is your treasure. Don't trade it for an easy life.
A person may look like a fool, but not be one. He can simply protect his wisdom.
Virtues are the fruits of self-discipline; they do not fall from the sky like rain or snow. Modesty is the basis of all virtues.
Let your neighbors open you up before you open yourself up to them.
A noble heart never forces itself. His words are like rare pearls, they rarely appear, but are of great value.
For a sincere student, every day is a happy day.
Time passes, but it is never late. Neither words nor shame can control him.
Judge yourself, not others.
Don't judge right and wrong.
Some things, although true, may seem wrong to some generation. Since the price of being right can be determined after many centuries, there is no need to demand immediate evaluation.
Live by doing, and leave the results to the great law of the Universe.
Spend the day in peaceful reflection.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru