Zuin, a master of the Shingon sect, was a famous Sanskrit scholar during the Tokugawa era (1603–1867). In his youth he often lectured to his fellow monks. Upon learning of this, his mother wrote him the following letter:
“My son, I don’t think you can become a faithful follower of the Buddha if you strive to become a walking reference book for others. There is no end to information and comments, honor and glory. I wish you no more lectures. Shut yourself up in a small temple far away in the mountains. Dedicate your time to meditation and thus achieve true realization.”
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru