Seizei said to Sozan, “Seizei is utterly destitute. Will you give him support?” Sozan called out, “Seizei!” Seizei responded, “Yes, sir!” Sozan said, “You have finished three cups of the finest wine in the land and still you say you have not moistened your lips!”

Mumon’s Comment

Seizei pretended to retreat. What was his scheme? Sozan had the eye of Buddha and saw through his opponent’s motive. However, I want to ask you, at what point did Seizei drink wine?

Mumon’s Verse

Poverty like Hantan’s,

Mind like Kou’s;

With no means of livelihood,

He dares to rival the richest.