Tangen studied with Sengai from childhood. When he turned 20, he wanted to leave his teacher and visit other teachers to compare teaching. But Sengai did not allow him to do this. Every time Tangen asked for this, Sengai flicked him on the forehead. Finally, Tangen asked his elder brother to persuade Sengai to give permission. The brother complied with the request and said to Tangen:
- Everything is settled. I have agreed that you will go on a pilgrimage immediately.
Tangen went to Sengai to thank him for permission. The master responded by flicking him on the forehead. When Tangen told his elder brother about this, he said:
- What's the matter? Sengai has no business if he first gives permission and then changes his mind. I'll go talk to him.
And he went to the teacher.
“I haven’t changed my mind at all,” said Sengai. - I just wanted to click him one last time, because when he returns, he will be enlightened, and I will no longer be able to reprimand him.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru