The Library of God

The most revered building at No Wind monastery was a quiet, humble structure that stood at the outskirts of the grounds and boasted the sign, The Library of God. The monks knew this building was a special place, not only because they could feel the divine vibrations just by being near it, but also because all the special monks who Zen Master Blumise had allowed into the library, always came out enlightened.

The strange thing about the library though, was that no one knew which books it held. You see, whenever an enlightened monk emerged from the library, and was asked which books he/she had had the privilege to read there, the monk always just smiled and said, "You will see when your time comes". Of course, there were plenty or rumors about which books were in the great library. The original Vedas some said, perfect version of the Diamond Sutra said others, it was the purest Bible, the best Koran, the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, etc, etc. In fact, the most recent rumor was that it was a special text left behind by a now extinct civilization! In short, the theories were many, but the facts were none.

All the monks worked very hard on their spiritual growth hoping to be picked to enter this sacred library. You see, it was well understood that only advanced monks, who were ripe for enlightenment, were chosen by Master Blumise and this was an opportunity the monks desperately wanted. Such a day finally arrived for Monk Shanti. She had spent many years at the monastery and Master Blumise now felt she was ready for the final step in her journey.

Shanti's good friend monk Chin, wished her good luck as she stepped through the hallowed doors to spend the next few weeks in isolation in the legendary library. As she walked in, she was amazed by the overwhelming sacred atmosphere that permeated the entire building. The very air was holy and just being there, she felt the blessings of a thousand saints. In front of her was a great hall, "The Only Book You Need to Read", was etched above it's entrance and in the center of the great hall, sat a silent zafu (zen meditation cushion). The silent zafu was the only object in the entire library.

Shanti smiled as she as made her way to the zafu, her attention now fully focused on her mind and thoughts.