I saw a video of a fellow who apparently wanted to make two points clear to whomever would listen to him: First, he wanted to demonstrate that he is in fact a bona fide “dharma heir” in a particular zen lineage; and, secondly, he made his assertion that, as of the date of the recording, he had not appointed any dharma heir of his own.

The evidence of transmission? Stuff. Lots of stuff. Certificates, calligraphy, signatures, and seals. He held them up to the camera to show whomever would accept them and bear witness.

Elsewhere, there are people who are much more concerned with another form of transmission and arguing what it all means. Each “side” struggles to make their points, focused upon casting the others in a different light. For those in the fight, nothing is off-limits. Nothing is sacred.

Once I spent time with a Korean fellow. He made a habit of wearing funky grey pajamas of sorts and running ceremonies in the out-building holding a golden Buddha statue with all the trimmings. I personally enjoyed the meditation time, the tea, and conversations with the fellow. He was kind to me. Not much more mattered.

One day, in a small group, I referred to him as “the monk” as I often did. To be fair, most everyone referred to him as “seunim,” Korean for… a Buddhist monk. But in that moment, he interrupted with deliberate seriousness that everyone present could hear: “That’s ‘Zen Master.’”

And he may have been, right up until he said so.

Game on! Or, maybe not. In his own vernacular, was he attached to this title, whatever it means? Was he using the role skillfully for the benefit of others; or was it for deception, abuse, or self-enrichment? Maybe he was offering a challenge, simply interrogating me, or the room? Who knows?

Do you see my point? Or do you see yours?