Question
We shouldn’t identify with welfare recipients? I assume there is no contempt in this answer, because that would go against Zen teaching. Being well aware of the different contexts in Asia and the West, I don’t think you need to justify charging for your sessions. But I still deplore the pettiness of this (non-)answer, which is more a matter of rhetoric than
wisdom. Let me explain: you dismissed the example (welfare recipients) to avoid answering a question that would interest many people (myself included). Is this question embarrassing?
I will ask you this question again: ”(…) So does selection based on money take place on the Way too?”
Many thanks for all the other answers, which are clear and rich in teaching.
Anonymous
Answer from Master Kosen
Absolutely.
Tradition has always required a selection process for admitting disciples into the sangha,
to test their motivation and determination to practice.
Disciples very often traveled thousands of kilometers on foot to encounter the true Dharma.
In asking us to find the money needed to pay for our practice, Master Deshimaru said he was forcing us to create wisdom.
Kosen