Sesshu and the rat
Sesshu Toyo and the rat
The artist and Zen monk who is known by the name of Sesshu is one of the greatest Japanese artists of all time. Born in Akahama (now part of Soja, Okayama Pref.) in 1420. The son of a samurai family, at the age of 10 he was packed off to the nearby Zen temple of Hofuku-Ji to train as a monk, and it was from this time that a famous story about him is set.
Apparently he was not a good novice, preferring to spend his time drawing rather than chanting the sutras, and one day as punishment for his misbehavior he was tied to one of the pillars in the temple hall. Later when a monk (or abbot) came to check on him he was startled by what appeared to be a rat on the floor in front of the bound Sesshu.
On closer examination it turned out that the rat was a very life-like drawing done by Sesshu using his toe to draw in the dust of the floor with his tears.
His artistic talent being recognized he was encouraged to follow his heart and so became the great artist he is known for today.
There is another version of the story that says that the rat drawing was so life-like it actually became real and chewed through the ropes binding Sesshu and freed him. (this sounds like a story exaggeration that was added to the story as the years went on)
this story and more found here…
More glimpses of unfamiliar Japan
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Sesshu Toyo is a prime example of how others may try and tie you to their way of thinking and bind you to reform and yet with perseverance it is possible to show others that the fault lies with not accepting one for the way they are. His story, a zen monk back in 1420 and yet we as a society have learned so little from such an inspirational artist.
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Rituals and a cat
a zendictive story (related topic)
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may your day be filled with such perseverance
There is potential waiting to be seen in every circumstance. This reminded me very much of the http://mylifeyoga.com/2011/12/31/a-cracked-pot/ post.
Also makes me think of the interview I just watched Oprah do with Steven Tyler (of Aerosmith) on her new program. He is a deeply spiritual man and was talking about the art of creativity. She asked if the song is always there, waiting to be ‘discovered’ or if it ‘comes in’ at a certain point. Loved that Steven referenced Michaelangelo talking about the stone that became ‘David:’ the art was always contained within, just need someone and some time to chip away the stone and find it. xoxo
Jackie L. Robinson - January 12, 2012 at 7:32 am |
What a great story, mi amigo. How many of us spend the first, formative years of our lives tied up in the expectations of our parents or others that care for us? How many of us continue through life bound by what society says we should be or do or have or experience? Thankfully, your good monk here had folks around him that realized their error, and supported Sesshu so that his highest purpose could unfold. If only that was the case for all of us, imagine what the result would be?
When my own children were born, I made a promise to myself, to them, and to God, that I would not try to shape them to my “image” of what I thought they should be, even in the midst of raising them to be great people. I would encourage and celebrate their explorations, and their gifts as they appeared. As it turns out, they have both become terrific adults and seem to have found their niches on their own. On the other hand – they are my kids. They might change their mind – and their paths – at any time! LOL
Janece - January 12, 2012 at 8:18 am |
Great post. Thanks – creativity is ground out of kids far too early. We should have the bravery and vision to find and fulfil our dreams. Best wishes
gingerfightback - January 12, 2012 at 8:23 am |
http://tigergroves.wordpress.com/ (new address)
please follow back-so I won’t miss a post!
Heather Whitley Gibson - January 12, 2012 at 9:37 am |
May you be very happy for all the wealth of knowledge you have shared as it has really helped!
willowdot21 - January 12, 2012 at 10:36 am |
Oh My Gosh Art ! Awesome story ….. Everyone is an artist – To Create whatever it may be – a song – a poem – a child – a garden – A Life !!! That is to be Respected in our messed up society of what You wrote of “Binding ” …….
Bound Bound Bound – The True Artist will alchemically Get His heart Through – his Art Through – There is No stopping an artist ….Thank You for the reminder – Such Brilliance xx
reminds me of ” The Little Prince ” and the first few chapters of that book –
Thank You Art – sheer brilliance ….
Cat xx
Cat Forsley - January 12, 2012 at 10:42 am |
The 5 year old desiring happiness as an adult sounds like my son in first-grade who drew very vivid illustrations to all his spelling word sentences all around the border of his homework paper. He told the teacher rejecting his submission as “too mess” that she did not know good artwork when she saw it. So the teacher of the happiness-desiring five year old did not know good “heart” work she she heard it!
granbee - January 12, 2012 at 3:33 pm |
It’s amazing how stories can be embellished over the years. I particularly enjoyed the cat story.
Fergiemoto - January 12, 2012 at 7:15 pm |
Nothing is impossible.. Manifesting is real.. Wonderful story..
Sue Dreamwalker - January 13, 2012 at 8:37 am |
nice post. some attribution would have been nice
ojisanjake - January 20, 2012 at 2:52 am |
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Be “Nothing” | A Taxi Dog Diary - February 3, 2012 at 1:10 pm |