Two Zen Monks and a Lady

Two Zen monks were journeying together, observing very strict vows of austerity. One day, however, as they were about to cross a wide, muddy stream, a beautifully dressed young woman approached them. The first monk instantly averted his eyes to avoid temptation. When she began to speak, he turned away.

The young woman thus directed her words to the second monk. "Please, sir. I am on my way to see my fiance in this new kimono his family gave me. I don't want to soil it on the way. Could you help me cross the stream?"

"Of course," the second monk replied. He picked up the young woman, carried her through the muddy water, and set her down past the mud on the other side. She thanked him and went on her way.

The first monk was shocked and appalled by his brother's behavior. After waiting for many miles for words of explanation or regret, he could hold his tongue no longer.

"How could you do such a thing?!" he shouted. "Is nothing sacred to you? You know that we are forbidden to look at women, let alone touch them! And you held that beautiful girl close to your own body! You should be ashamed!"

The second monk looked at his brother with genuine curiosity.

"Brother," he replied gently. "I set the lady down on the other side of the stream. Are you still carrying her?"