The Light of Truth Can Fade

A student from the Tendai school, a philosophical tradition within Buddhism, visited Zen Master Gasan to request discipleship. Years later, as the student prepared to leave, Gasan called him back with a solemn warning. He said that while studying truth is useful, like gathering specific teachings, one must remember that unless meditative concentration continues without pause, the light of truth may extinguish itself.

The student was surprised by this caution. He respectfully told his teacher that he had attained mindfulness and awareness. His mind felt constantly empty, pure, and clear. He believed he had already reached enlightenment.

Gasan shook his head gently. He explained that what the student had achieved was only a beginning. If one becomes negligent and does not regularly practice sitting meditation, that truth will fade away. It can only be sustained through diligent and consistent meditative concentration.

The student bowed his head, recognizing his own laxity. He had relied too heavily on his spiritual attainments, assuming he could maintain practice in daily life without formal sitting meditation. But Gasan taught that even if one has gained insight, failing to maintain regular meditation causes the light of truth to vanish like a lamp running out of oil.

Never rely on spiritual achievements alone while neglecting meditation. Consistent meditative concentration is the fuel that sustains truth; otherwise, the light will inevitably go out.