Shoushan’s Three Shots at Getting It (BS76)

KOAN:

Shoushan said, “If you get it the first time, you’ll teach buddhas and ancestors. If you get it the second time, you’ll teach humans and angels. If you get it the third time, you won’t even be able to save yourself.”

A student asked, “When did you get it, teacher?”

Shoushan said, “The moon sets at midnight; I walk alone through the town.”

—Book of Serenity Case 76