Ikkyu Quotes

Having no destination, I am never lost.

Learn how to read the love letters sent by the wind and rain, the snow and moon.

Eight inches strong, it is my favourite thing; If I'm alone at night, I embrace it fully - A beautiful woman hasn't touched it for ages. Within my fundoshi there is an entire universe!

We must become what we were Before we were born

Like vanishing dew, a passing apparition or the sudden flash of lightning -- already gone -- thus should one regard one's self.

Many paths lead from the foot of the mountain, but at the peak we all gaze at the single bright moon.

Become a Buddha? The mind can't do it. The body can't do it. Only what can't become a Buddha becomes a Buddha.

My real dwelling Has no pillars And no roof either So rain cannot soak it And wind cannot blow it down.

From the world of passions returning to the world of passions: There is a moment's pause. If it rains, let it rain, if the wind blows, let it blow.

Look at the cherry blossoms! Their color and scent fall with them, Are gone forever, Yet mindless The spring comes again.

Break open the cherry tree: where are the blossoms? Just wait for spring time to see how they bloom.

Don't read the sutras - practice meditation. Don't take up the broom - practice meditation. Don't plant tea seeds - practice meditation.

You do this, you do that You argue left, you argue right You come down, you go up This person says no, you say yes Back and forth You are happy You are really happy

Break open A cherry tree And there are no flowers; But the spring breeze Brings forth myriad blossoms.

I and other humans no difference.

The salvation of birds and beasts, oneself included - this is the object of Shakyamuni's religious austerities.

The tree is stripped, All color, fragrance gone, Yet already on the bough, Uncaring spring!

Watching my four year old daughter dance I cannot break free of her.