Every Day is a Good Day!
Ummon addressed the assembly and said, “I am not asking you about the days before the 15th of the month, but what about after the 15th? Come, and give me a word about those days.” And he himself gave the answer for them. “Every day is a good day.” — Case 6, Blue Cliff Record
The power of koans lies in their ability to challenge the reasoning mind and elevate prajna, or wisdom, beyond conventional thinking. These apparent riddles, anecdotes, or questions often serve as gateways to profound insights and spiritual growth if we can let go of our preconceived karmic notions.
At first glance, Ummon's question may appear confusing. What could he possibly mean by distinguishing days before and after the 15th of the month? To grasp the essence of this koan, we must move beyond the surface and delve into its spiritual depths.
In the context of Zen, the "15th of the month" symbolizes a breakthrough. Ummon is essentially stating that he is not interested in the seeker's past achievements, realizations, or spiritual experiences. He challenges us to focus on the what is right here and drop our labels of past, present, and future. Thus, "after the 15th" represents the ordinary, mundane, and routine aspects of life.
In our journey towards self-discovery, it is easy to become fixated on extraordinary moments of insight or profound experiences. However, the true essence of Zen lies in embracing this moment with single-minded devotion. The koan urges us to see the inherent beauty and perfection in the ordinary, mundane routines of life.
Ummon's answer, "Every day is a good day," holds profound wisdom that transcends time and culture. By declaring that every day is a good day, Ummon emphasizes the importance of cultivating an open mind, an open heart. Each day is an opportunity to embark on a new journey, explore uncharted territories, and deepen our understanding of ourselves.
Impermanence is a fundamental truth. The notion that every day is a good day reflects the acceptance and celebration of impermanence. Life is in constant flux, and no moment can be captured or held onto. By embracing the impermanence of life, we learn to savor each day as a unique and precious gift.
In your relentless pursuit of spiritual growth and understanding, don’t overlook the beauty of simplicity and the wisdom of the ordinary. As we navigate the complexities of life, may the timeless teachings of this koan guide us towards a deeper appreciation of every day as a good day.
