Zen Tales
(9)《Half-day Leisure》
Once in ancient China, a government minister decided to visit a famous temple. His subordinates notified the Resident Monk to prepare for the visit three days ahead.
All monks got busy to make the visit a success.
The temple was situated deep in the mountains, embraced by bamboo groves and pine trees. It was serene looking out to a sea of clouds.
The Minister felt very pleased walking here and there, stopping to gaze at the pale blue sky that was now vivid now hidden. There was a comforting breeze to play music among the pines and ciders.
He was invited in for a vegetarian lunch with rice wine. As he ate and drank, his mind travelled far in space and time. He recited the famous Tang verse:
“Hearing Buddhist chants as I pass the bamboo court, 因過竹院逢僧話，
What comfort it is to have half a day of leisure in life’s flirts.” 又得浮生半日閑
The Resident Monk laughed as he heard the poem. He urged the Minister to enjoy his meal. He then said: “We are very glad that you are enjoying half a day of leisure here. Your kind visit has kept all of us busy for three days.”
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Note: This is an English narration of an allegory in the book《譚概》.It juxtaposed the differing situations of temple monks and a high official in their encounter. The original phrase 半日閑 in the famous Tang poem has come to mean a way of life that is balanced by work and leisure.