Once there was a university professor who was known as an extremely knowledgeable person. There were many research named to him in the field of philosophy. The professor had keen interest in Zen Buddhism practices and wanted to learn more about it. He visited a famous Japanese Zen master to learn the pearls of Zen wisdom.

When he reached the Zen master's place, his disciples took him to the Zen Master's room. Zen master's physical appearance was affable, and his spirit was lofty. His face was shimmering, and a lot of positive energy could be felt around him. After welcoming his visitor, the Zen master asked the professor the reason for his visit. The professor told him the motive of the visit: "I have come to ask you to teach me about Zen." The Zen master asked the professor, "You are known for your knowledge everywhere; please share something with me." The Professors started talking about his research in different fields one by one. After some time, he started sharing his knowledge about Zen. The Zen master listens to him silently for an hour. Zen master interrupted and asked the professor if he would like to enjoy some tea.

Knowing he should accept, the professor smiled and thanked the Zen master for his generosity.

One of the Zen master's disciples disappeared and then quickly reappeared with two cups and some steaming tea.

Embrace Humility

Let Go of Prejudice

           Be Open to Learning

The master started pouring the tea into the cup and smiled at the professor. The professor continued sharing his knowledge of Zen with the master. The Zen master was slowly pouring the tea, and the cup was filled fully. But he did not stop and kept pouring the tea into the cup. The tea started overflowing on the table. The professor noticed it and continued to watch as it overflowed. Soon, the tea started falling on the professor's robes, and he could no longer restrain himself.

The professor put his hand up and exclaimed, "Stop! Can't you see? The cup is full already. It's overflowing. No more will go in!" The Zen master did not stop, and still, he kept pouring tea. The professors got angry and rushed towards the gate. The Zen master called him, "Professor, please listen." The professor did not stop. The master ran behind him and stopped him.

The Zen master calmly explained to him the reason behind kept pouring the tea in the cup; even after it overflowed. Zen master said, "You are here to ask questions. Yet you come full. You have your own ideas and have no space. Until you have room for more, you will not accept new information. You are like that cup of tea. How can I show you Zen unless you first empty your cup?"