Humble Robes

A Zen Koan

Yamaoka, a Zen master and renowned swordsman, served as a tutor to the Emperor.

The Emperor was annoyed one day that Yamaoka always wore old, ragged clothing when he came to visit.

One day, after his visit, the Emperor gave Yamaoka some gold coins and told him — ”go to the market and buy yourself some new clothes.”

The master thanked him graciously but returned the following day with the same ratty outfit.

“Where are the new clothes?” — the Emperor asked.

“I bought them at the market” — replied Yamaoka — ”but then I gave them to someone else who was not as rich as I.”