Su Shi had close friendship with many eminent monks and masters who kept intimate relationship with him. In 1079, Su Shi was demoted to Huangzhou County and started to read Buddhist classics in abundance and had close relationship with famous Zen Master Foyin Liaoyuan. The two left many famous questions and answers records relating to the Zen Buddhism.

One day, they travelled in Hangzhou City and Su Shi saw a steep mountain peak and asked Foyin, "What's the name of that mountain?"

Foyin answered, "That is Mount Feilai (literally flying back)."

Su Shi said,"Since it flies back, why not fly away?"

Foyin said,"The stillness is better than the move."

Su Shi asked,"Why should it keep still?"

Foyin said,"Take things as they come."

Another day, they toured the scenic spots. Suddenly Foyin said,"Your posture on the horse is very solemn, like a Buddha statue."

Su Shi answered,"Then you look like cow dung in your black kasaya."

Foyin smiled and said,"I talked Buddha and you talked cow dung."

The attendants followed all laughed while hearing their conversation.(Essay: Liu Tao)