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A master and his disciple were travelling together. They happened to come to a river with a strong current. As they were preparing to cross, a lone young woman asked if they could help her to the other side.

While the disciple hesitated, the master immediately offered to help.

The disciple was in disbelief as he saw his master break his vows by carrying the woman on his shoulders. He couldn't contain himself and a few hours removed from the incident he began to voice his resentment to condemn what had just transpired.

His master replied, "I set her down by the river. You are the one still carrying her."

- https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=23097504, Ask HN: Name one idea that changed your life (2020)



What were the vows broken? I feel like I’m missing the lead up to the punchline.


Don’t touch a woman, a vow of chastity. The master follows it to the spirit and his disciple does that to the letter, but ignoring the spirit.


Got it. Thanks!


What's omitted is the monks had taken a vow not to touch a woman.

[0] https://www.kindspring.org/story/view.php?sid=63753




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