Once a division of the Japanese army was engaged in a sham battle, and
some of the officers found it necessary to make their headquarters in
Gasan's temple.
Gasan told his cook: "Let the officers have only the same simple fare
we eat."
This made the army men angry, as they were used to very deferential
treatment. One came to Gasan and said: "Who do you think we are? We are
soldiers, sacrificing our lives for our country. Why don't you treat us
accordingly?"
Gasan answered sternly: "Who do you think we are? We are
soldiers of humanity, aiming to save all sentient beings."
