Zhuangzi: Basic Writings

Nonfiction, Religion & Spirituality, Philosophy, Taoism, Eastern Religions
Cover of the book Zhuangzi: Basic Writings by Zhuangzi, Columbia University Press
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Zhuangzi ISBN: 9780231521338
Publisher: Columbia University Press Publication: April 16, 2003
Imprint: Columbia University Press Language: English
Author: Zhuangzi
ISBN: 9780231521338
Publisher: Columbia University Press
Publication: April 16, 2003
Imprint: Columbia University Press
Language: English

Only by inhabiting Dao (the Way of Nature) and dwelling in its unity can humankind achieve true happiness and freedom, in both life and death. This is Daoist philosophy's central tenet, espoused by the person—or group of people—known as Zhuangzi (369?–286? BCE) in a text by the same name. To be free, individuals must discard rigid distinctions between right and wrong, and follow a course of action not motivated by gain or striving. When one ceases to judge events as good or bad, man-made suffering disappears, and natural suffering is embraced as part of life.

Zhuangzi elucidates this mystical philosophy through humor, parable, and anecdote, using non sequitur and even nonsense to illuminate truths beyond the boundaries of ordinary logic. Boldly imaginative and inventively written, the Zhuangzi floats free of its historical period and society, addressing the spiritual nourishment of all people across time. One of the most justly celebrated texts of the Chinese tradition, the Zhuangzi is read by thousands of English-language scholars each year, yet, until now, only in the Wade-Giles romanization. Burton Watson's conversion to pinyin in this book brings the text in line with how Chinese scholars, and an increasing number of other scholars, read it.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

Only by inhabiting Dao (the Way of Nature) and dwelling in its unity can humankind achieve true happiness and freedom, in both life and death. This is Daoist philosophy's central tenet, espoused by the person—or group of people—known as Zhuangzi (369?–286? BCE) in a text by the same name. To be free, individuals must discard rigid distinctions between right and wrong, and follow a course of action not motivated by gain or striving. When one ceases to judge events as good or bad, man-made suffering disappears, and natural suffering is embraced as part of life.

Zhuangzi elucidates this mystical philosophy through humor, parable, and anecdote, using non sequitur and even nonsense to illuminate truths beyond the boundaries of ordinary logic. Boldly imaginative and inventively written, the Zhuangzi floats free of its historical period and society, addressing the spiritual nourishment of all people across time. One of the most justly celebrated texts of the Chinese tradition, the Zhuangzi is read by thousands of English-language scholars each year, yet, until now, only in the Wade-Giles romanization. Burton Watson's conversion to pinyin in this book brings the text in line with how Chinese scholars, and an increasing number of other scholars, read it.

More books from Columbia University Press

Cover of the book Envisioning The Tale of Genji by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book Freud's Free Clinics by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book The Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book The Mutual Fund Industry by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book Tattooing the World by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book Plant-Thinking by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book Odd Girls and Twilight Lovers by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book Passion for Reality by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book Strong Society, Smart State by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book The Great Kantō Earthquake and the Chimera of National Reconstruction in Japan by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book China Rising by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book Philosophical Temperaments by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book Scaling Relations in Experimental Ecology by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book The Fate of Wonder by Zhuangzi
Cover of the book The Politics of Inequality by Zhuangzi
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy