The Path is Dark

A Zen Koan.

A Zen student visited Master Ryutan one evening to talk and listen.

By the time they were done speaking, it was very late.

“Why don't you go to bed?” — asked Ryutan

The student bowed and opened the door to leave — “the path is very dark” — said the student.

“Here, take this candle,” — replied Ryutan as he lit it for the student.

The student reached out and grabbed the candle.

As the student prepared to walk away, Ryutan reached forward and blew it out.