I have three kinds of disciples: those who, vigorously shaking off
all entangling circumstances, and with singleness of thought apply
themselves to the study of their own [spiritual] affairs are of the
first class. Those who are not so single-minded in the study, but
scattering their attention are fond of book-learning, are of the
second. Those who, covering their own spiritual brightness, are only
occupied with the dribblings of the Buddhas and Fathers are called the
lowest. As to those minds that are intoxicated by secular literature
and engaged in establishing themselves as men of letters are simply
laymen with shaven heads, they do not belong even to the lowest.
As regards those who think only of indulging in food and sleep and
give themselves up to indolence,—could such be called members of the
Black Robe? They are truly, as were designated by an old master,
clothes-racks and rice-bags. Inasmuch as they are not monks, they ought
not to be permitted to call themselves my disciples and enter the
monastery and sub-temples as well, even a temporary sojourn is to be
prohibited, not to speak of their application as student-monks. When
an old man like myself speaks thus, you may think he is lacking
in all-embracing love, but the main thing is to let them know of their
own faults, and, reforming themselves, to become growing plants in the
patriarchal gardens.