The Disciples’ Responses

First, a disciple named Dofu spoke:

“In my understanding, the Way is found by neither clinging to words nor discarding them.”

Bodhidharma responded:

“You have grasped my skin.”

Next, Zongchi said:

“As I understand it, when Ananda saw the Land of Ultimate Bliss, he observed it once and did not look back.”

Bodhidharma replied:

“You have acquired my flesh.”

Then, Doyu spoke:

“The four elements are inherently empty, and the five aggregates do not truly exist.
To me, there is not a single law to be obtained.”

Bodhidharma remarked:

“You have taken my bones.”

The Essence of True Understanding

Finally, Huike simply bowed silently and stood respectfully. Bodhidharma exclaimed:

“You alone have obtained my marrow.”

Bodhidharma then passed on his alms bowl and robe to Huike, signifying the transmission of his Dharma lineage.

Understanding the Story

This story reveals Bodhidharma’s acknowledgment of his impending death and his intention to transmit his teachings.
His challenge to the disciples was an invitation to express their true understanding of the Dharma.

Let’s examine the responses in detail:

Dofu’s Understanding

Dofu expressed an understanding of the limitations of words, recognizing that scriptures are but stepping stones.
Bodhidharma’s response, “You have grasped my skin,” acknowledges this foundational understanding as the outermost layer of truth.

Zongchi’s Insight

Zongchi highlighted the importance of not clinging to the results of enlightenment, such as heavenly visions.
However, his understanding remained intellectual. Bodhidharma’s reply, “You have acquired my flesh,” reflects this intermediate level of comprehension.

Doyu’s Perspective

Doyu’s response delved into the emptiness of phenomena, asserting that there is no law to be grasped.
Yet, even this advanced insight was incomplete. Bodhidharma’s remark, “You have taken my bones,” acknowledges the depth but not the essence.

Huike’s Silent Wisdom

Huike’s silent bow demonstrated the absence of ego and complete immersion in the world of essence.
His stillness reflected a mind undisturbed by waves. This profound embodiment of truth led Bodhidharma to declare:

“You alone have obtained my marrow.”

With this, the transmission of enlightenment from Shakyamuni Buddha through 28 Indian patriarchs culminated in Bodhidharma’s lineage in China.
Huike became the first Chinese patriarch, drawing disciples from across the land.