In this verse the left-home practitioner does not preach or spread the Dharma. The very appearance of a dedicated monk or nun is enough to inspire respect for the Dharma. Left-home practitioners represent the Buddha, and they should be recognized as such. On this retreat, every morning and evening, all of you prostrate to me. I hope you understand that you are not prostrating to me as a person. I have no desire for such honor and respect. Whether you prostrate to me or ignore me is irrelevant. It is of no matter to me. You are prostrating to the Three Jewels ─ Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha ─ which I represent.

Not seeking the true, not rejecting the false,
Realize that both are empty and formless.
There is no form, no emptiness and no non-emptiness;
This is the true mark of the Tathagata.


The stanza before this one describes the external appearance of a monk or nun. This stanza describes the internal attitude of a Ch'an practitioner.

If you want to get enlightened, then you will not get enlightened. The more you think about reaching Buddhahood, the further from Buddhahood you will be. If, while meditating, you have an opposing attitude toward your wandering thoughts, then you will open the door for more wandering thoughts. You should not oppose anything in your practice or while meditating.