A Day Without Working Is A Day Without Eating

In the everyday work of the monastery, Ch'an Master Baizhang was foremost among the assembly at undertaking the chores of the day.

The monks in charge of the work schedule were concerned about their elderly Master. They hid his tools and asked him to rest.

"I'm unworthy," Master Baizhang said. "How can I allow others to work when I will not."

He looked everywhere for his tools but was unable to find them. He did not eat while his tools were missing.

"A day without working is a day without eating,"the Master said.

The monks finally returned their Master's tool to him.

His words, "A day without working is a day without eating," became known everywhere.