21 Apr Koan 19

“Crow with no mouth”

— Ikkyu, 1394 – 1481

Can a crow with no mouth caw?

Does a crow with no mouth have a craw?

Is a crow with no mouth a crow?

Is a crow with no mouth simply a crow with no mouth?

Crows are exceptionally intelligent birds. They can solve complex problems, use tools, and even recognize human faces. They are also highly adaptable, learning to thrive in various environments. They are keen observers and can consider alternative strategies to realizing their goals.

Crows are symbolic of wisdom.

Those who are wise as a crow observe that birds have beaks but no mouths. A crow with no mouth is not unlike any other crow; only our thoughts make it otherwise.

Crows don’t need a mouth, for wisdom cannot be conveyed with words:

“He who speaks does not know, he who knows does not speak.” (Lao Tzu)