The Gates Of Paradise -Zen Story-

This story conveys a beautiful and valuable message to us. When your death comes, will you go to heaven or hell? But what about this moment? of these days? Are you going through a hell of your own making? Or on the contrary, do you find yourself directing your steps towards paradise?

Transcript

A warrior made a long trip to meet with a renowned Zen master.

Once he reached him,

He asked,

Is there really a paradise and a hell?

Who are you?

,

Inquired the old master.

I am a samurai,

Replied the soldier.

You?

A soldier?

Exclaimed the master.

What kind of ruler would have you as his guard?

Your face looks like that of a beggar.

The samurai became so angry that he began to draw his sword.

But the wise man continued.

So you have a sword.

Your weapon is probably much too dull to cut an apple.

As the samurai raised his sword,

The old man remarked,

Here open the gates of hell.

At these words,

The samurai,

Perceiving the master's calmness,

Sheathed his sword and bowed.

Here open the gates of paradise,

Said the wise man.

Reviews

Wise indeed. The choice is one's own. Thank you for sharing this.

A profound lesson, and the vivid sounds bright it home to me. Thank you!