Perfect Silence - Zen Story

Four pupils used to practice meditation, the time before Zen came to Japan. These pupils, close friends vowed to each other to observe silence for seven days. The first day passed well.

But as the evening progressed and the oil lamps became dim, one student couldn’t help himself and said “Attend to the lamps!” he shouted impatiently to an assistant.

His friend turned to him, surprised, and said “You are not supposed to speak! Have you forgotten?”

The third friend piped up, “You fools! Why are you talking?”

“Hah, I’m the only one who’s kept silent!” exclaimed the last.