Huangbo Xiyun was an influential Chinese Chan Buddhist master from Fujian province, renowned for his role in developing the “sudden enlightenment” approach and mentoring Linji Yixuan (founder of the Linji/Rinzai school). As a disciple of Baizhang Huaihai, he became famous for his uncompromising teaching style — using shouts, strikes, and paradoxical dialogues to awaken students. He spent his days blending in among the monastic community, performing menial tasks like sweeping temple floors and halls — yet none could fathom his spiritual depth. In reality, he was a supremely enlightened master.
Minister Pei Xiu visited a temple to offer incense. As the temple steward showed him a mural, Pei Xiu asked: “What image is this?”
Steward: “A portrait of an eminent monk.”
Pei Xiu pressed: “The portrait is visible — but where is the true monk?”
The steward fell silent. Pei Xiu then asked: “Is there any Chan practitioner here?”
Steward: “A monk recently arrived doing menial duties — he seems like a Zen master.”
The monk, Huangbo Xiyun, was summoned.
Pei Xiu examined Huangbo and said: “I asked a question earlier that none could answer. Can you?” He restated: “The portrait is here — where is the true monk?”
Huangbo suddenly shouted: “PEI XIU!”
Startled, Pei Xiu responded: “Yes?”
Huangbo demanded: “WHERE IS IT?”
Pei Xiu instantly awakened, exclaiming:
“You are a true teacher! Your teaching directly hits the mark. Why are you hidden away here?!”
Philosophical Notes
The Shout That Shattered Seeking:
Huangbo’s roar “PEI XIU!” forced the minister to experience presence — exposing the futility of seeking “true monks” externally. His “Yes?” revealed the ever-present awareness.
“Where Is It?” as Sword of Suchness:
Huangbo’s follow-up “Where is it?” cut through:
Pei Xiu’s conceptual trap (“Where is the true monk?”)
All dualities (portrait vs. reality, seeker vs. sought).
The answer was in Pei Xiu’s own startled response.
Wisdom in Menial Labor:
Huangbo’s hidden role as a laborer embodies Zen’s truth: enlightenment isn’t found in status (eminent monks/portraits) but in chopping wood and drawing water.
Zen Essence:
When Huangbo shouted “Pei Xiu!”, the minister’s “Yes?” was the true monk — alive, undivided, and utterly ordinary.
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