Zen koan of the day - The Most Valuable Thing in the World

The Most Valuable Thing in the World

Sojian, a Chinese Zen master, was asked by a student: "What is the most valuable thing in the world?"

Sojian replied: "The head of a dead cat."

"Why would the head of a dead cat be the most valuable thing in the world?" asked the student.

"Because no one can name its price."


dcj commentary When I was growing up, I would confuse worthless and priceless. In fact some of the most expensive paintings (Jackson Pollock comes to mind -- though I am a fan) often solicit criticism as to why it is not worthless. We see another juxtaposition with valuable (has worth) and invaluable (was innumerable high worth).

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