14. Nansen Cuts the Cat in Two

Nansen saw the monks of the eastern and western halls fighting over a cat.
He seized the cat and told the monks:
  "If any of you say a good word [a word of Zen], you can save the cat."

No one answered. So Nansen boldly cut the cat in two pieces.

That evening Joshu returned and Nansen told him about this.
Joshu removed his sandals and, placing them on his head, walked out.

Nansen said:
  "If you had been there, you could have saved the cat."

Mumon's Comment:

Why did Joshu put his sandals on his head? If you can answer this question with one word, you understand Nansen's efforts. If not, you are utterly in danger.

   Had Joshu been there, 
   The opposite would have been done.
   Joshu would have snatched the knife,
   And Nansen would have begged for his life.