Tangen had studied with Sengai since childhood. When he was twenty he
wanted to leave his teacher and visit others for comparitive study, but
Sengai would not permit this. Every time Tangen suggested it, Sengai would
give him a rap on the head.
Finally Tangen asked an elder brother to coax permission from Sengai.
This the brother did and then reported to Tangen: "It is arranged. I have
fixed it for you to start on your pilgrimage at once."
Tangen went to Sengai to thank him for his permission. The master
answered by giving him another rap.
When Tangen related this to his elder brother the other said: "What is
the matter? Sengai has no business giving premission and then changing his
mind. I will tell him so." And off he went to see the teacher.
"I did not cancel my permission," said Sengai. "I just wished to give
him one last smack over the head, for when he returns he will be
enlightened and I will not be able to reprimand him again."
