Two monks, Tanzan and Ekido, were traveling together down a muddy road during a heavy rainstorm. As they rounded a bend, they encountered a beautiful young woman in a silk kimono, unable to cross a deep, water-filled intersection. Without a word, Tanzan picked the woman up in his arms and carried her safely to the other side. The monks continued their journey in silence. Hours later, as they reached their destination, Ekido could no longer contain his frustration. 'We monks are forbidden from going near women,' he scolded. 'Why did you pick that girl up?' Tanzan looked at his companion and replied calmly, 'I left the girl back there at the road. Are you still carrying her?'
The past only has power over us if we choose to carry it in our minds; true peace comes from letting go of attachments.
Questions about this story
What is the moral of The Burden?
The moral is that mental attachment is a much heavier weight than physical action. It teaches that we should act with compassion in the moment and then let go, rather than dwelling on the past or rigid rules.
Who are the two monks in the story?
The monks are Tanzan and Ekido. Tanzan represents the spirit of Zen through spontaneous action and detachment, while Ekido represents the struggle with rigid dogma and mental preoccupation.
What does the woman symbolize in this Zen story?
The woman represents a situation that challenges the monks' vows. She serves as a catalyst to show the difference between following the letter of the law versus the spirit of the law.
Why did Tanzan carry the woman if it was against the rules?
Tanzan acted out of immediate compassion to help someone in need. In Zen philosophy, helping others often takes precedence over strict adherence to external rules if those rules hinder kindness.
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Good night.
