The hearing that is only in the ears is one thing. The hearing of the understanding is another. But the hearing of the spirit is not limited to any one faculty to the ear, or to the mind.
ZhuangziRead
To regard the fundamental as the essence, to regard things as coarse, to regard accumulation as deficiency, and to dwell quietly alone with the spiritual and the intelligent - herein lie the techniques of Tao of the ancients.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of valuing spiritual essence over material accumulation, suggesting a profound understanding of life.
In this quote, Zhuangzi reflects on the Taoist philosophy that encourages individuals to appreciate the fundamental aspects of life and prioritize spiritual understanding over the superficiality of material possessions. By recognizing the limitations of worldly gain and choosing to connect with the deeper, more intelligent parts of existence, one can find true fulfillment and peace.
Themes
TaoismSpiritualitySimplicityWisdomPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about mindfulness and simplicity, this quote can serve as a profound reminder of what truly matters.
More from Zhuangzi
All quotes →Either in conflict with others or in harmony with them, we go through life like a runaway horse, unable to stop.
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When people do not ignore what they should ignore, but ignore what they should not ignore, this is known as ignorance.
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The true man of the past waited upon Heaven when dealing with people and did not wait upon people when dealing with Heaven.
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The mind remains undetermined in the great Void. Here the highest knowledge is unbounded. That which gives things their thusness cannot be delimited by things. So when we speak of 'limits', we remain confined to limited things. The limit of the unlimited is called 'fullness.' The limitlessness of the limited is called 'emptiness.' Tao is the source of both. But it is itself neither fullness nor emptiness
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All the fish needs is to get lost in the water. All man needs is to get lost in Tao.
ZhuangziRead
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