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The dharma lectures of the Zen master Bankei attracted large audiences. Not only were there Zen practitioners, but people from many different sects would come to listen. Bankei never quoted scriptures or engaged in academic debates; his words came directly from the mind/heart, touching the hearts of his listeners. For this reason, the crowds continued to grow.

Among the crowd was a priest of the Nichiren sect. He grew angry because many of his own disciples had left him to hear Bankei speak. Fueled by jealousy, he decided to go to Bankei’s Zen monastery to debate, hoping to undermine the reputation of the famous Zen master.

Just as Bankei finished his lecture, the Nichiren priest stepped forward and spoke in a challenging tone:

“Zen master, wait a moment! Anyone who respects you also obeys your words, but a person like me here does not respect you. How could you possibly make me listen to you?”

Bankei smiled gently and replied:

“Please come here, and I will show you how.”

The Nichiren priest barged through the crowd and stepped to the front, his face full of pride. Bankei looked at him and said:

“Please move to my left.”

Without a moment's hesitation, the priest walked to the left. Bankei then said:

“No, if you move to my right, we can talk better. Please step over here.”

The priest obeyed, moving to the right. Bankei nodded slightly and continued:

“You see? You are listening to my words. I think you are a very obedient person. Now, please sit down and listen.”

The Nichiren priest stood stunned, his face flushing red. He realized he had been trapped: though his mouth spoke of neither respect nor obedience, his actions revealed he had followed every one of Bankei’s instructions. His proud ego had caused him to lose self-control, allowing himself to be directed so easily. He bowed his head, sat down in silence, and had no words left to say.