Title: Farewell to Master Lingche
Author: Liu Changqing
In the Cang Cang Bamboo Forest Temple,
Distant bell tones at dusk.
With a bamboo hat on my back, under the slanting sun,
Green mountains fade into the distance.
This poem was written by Tang Dynasty poet Liu Changqing, expressing the poet's reluctance and longing for a reclusive life as he bids farewell to Master Lingche. The "Cang Cang Bamboo Forest Temple" describes the temple where Master Lingche resides, surrounded by lush bamboo groves, presenting a vibrant scene. The phrase "Distant Bell Tones at Dusk" evokes a sense of tranquility, with the deep and distant sound of bells resonating in the evening. "With a bamboo hat on my back, under the slanting sun" vividly depicts Master Lingche's departure, as the sunset casts its warm glow upon him. The line "Green mountains fade into the distance" illustrates the poet watching Master Lingche walk towards the distant green mountains, conveying deep affection for his friend as they part ways. Through this depiction of Master Lingche's return to the temple, the poem conveys the poet's profound friendship and yearning for a reclusive lifestyle. The language is concise yet rich in meaning, making it one of Liu Changqing's representative works.
Story Title: The Mountain Temple Adventure of Ling Che
I live in a small town nestled between mountains and rivers, where there is a bamboo forest temple on the mountain.
When I was young, my father often told me stories about the hermits in the mountains. He said they were all remarkable individuals who chose to live in seclusion to avoid worldly disturbances. He also mentioned that there was an old monk in the Bamboo Grove Temple who knew everything about the world. If a fated person could play a game of chess with him, he would be able to see that person's entire life destiny. These words sparked a deep interest in the mysterious mountains within me.
Today, with the weather being pleasant, I decided to visit the legendary Bamboo Grove Temple. On my way up the mountain, I saw a lush green bamboo forest, and a gentle breeze rustled through the leaves. As I passed through the bamboo grove, the setting sun cast its golden rays on the ancient temple in the distance.
The temple was hidden deep within the bamboo forest, exuding an air of mystery as if it had existed for a thousand years. I walked forward with a sense of anticipation and excitement. As I approached, the temple's large door slowly opened, revealing a kind-faced old monk who stepped out. He wore a gray monk's robe, his beard was white, and his gentle eyes seemed to indicate that he had been waiting for me for quite some time.
He greeted me with a bow and said warmly, "Please come in and have a seat." I quickly returned the gesture and followed him into the temple. Inside, it was very quiet, with only a few ancient Buddha statues and several flickering lamps. The air was fresh, faintly scented with bamboo.
The old monk invited me to sit down and then took out a teapot, pouring a cup of tea and placing it in front of me. I took a sip and found it sweet and delightful, refreshing my spirit. The old monk smiled and asked, "How do you find this tea?" I nodded repeatedly and replied, "It's very good! What kind of tea is this?"
The old monk chuckled and said, "This is just ordinary bamboo leaf tea from the mountains, brewed with spring water, naturally carrying the fragrance of bamboo." We sat quietly together, sipping tea while listening to the birds chirping and the wind rustling through the bamboo forest. This feeling was incredibly comforting, allowing me to forget all my worries in an instant.
The old monk suddenly asked me, "Amitabha, are you confused about fate?"
I was taken aback for a moment and then nodded.
I indeed felt some confusion about why some people have smooth lives while others face numerous hardships.
Why do some possess wealth and power, while others live in poverty?
The old monk seemed to see through my thoughts and smiled as he said, "Fate is a very mysterious thing; it appears elusive yet truly exists."
"Some people are born lucky, while others are destined for difficulties, but that does not mean their lives lack meaning."
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