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
When there is no more separation between 'this' and 'that,' it is called the still-point of the Tao. At the still point in the center of the circle one can see the infinite in all things.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that true understanding and unity come when distinctions are dissolved, revealing an underlying oneness in all things.
Zhuangzi's quote emphasizes the importance of transcending dualistic thinking to reach a state of harmony. The 'still-point of the Tao' symbolizes a deeper reality where opposites merge, allowing one to perceive the interconnectedness of all existence. In this state, one can experience the infinite possibilities and truths that lie beyond surface distinctions, fostering a sense of peace and awareness.
Themes
TaoStill PointOnenessUnityInfinite
In practice
Example use cases
In a meditation class, to illustrate the concept of unity, one might use this quote.
More from Zhuangzi
All quotes βEither 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
ZhuangziRead
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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