Guo Xiang 252 – 312
Guo Xiang (252 – 312) was a Chinese philosopher of the Ancient era, associated with Taoism.
Guo Xiang was a Chinese philosopher of the Western Jin dynasty and the most important commentator on the Zhuangzi, whose recension of the text became the standard one transmitted to later generations. Building on the work of his teacher Xiang Xiu, Guo developed in his commentary a Daoist metaphysics of self-so or ziran, in which all things produce themselves out of themselves and the Dao is not a hidden creator behind appearances but the ongoing self-engendering of the world. His emphasis on the natural rightness of every creature in its own place exerted a profound influence on the Neo-Daoist Xuanxue movement and on the early reception of Buddhist thought in China.
Key facts
- Nationality
- Chinese
- Era
- Ancient
- Movements
- Taoism
Selected quotes
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Attributed to Guo Xiang:
“All things produce themselves out of themselves; the Dao is no maker behind them.”
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Attributed to Guo Xiang:
“What is so by itself is what is most truly so.”
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Attributed to Guo Xiang:
“Each creature is right in its own place; the dragonfly is no failed hawk.”
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Attributed to Guo Xiang:
“There is no ruler behind heaven; heaven rules itself.”
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Attributed to Guo Xiang:
“The wise sage does not interfere; he allows each thing to be what it is.”
Frequently asked about Guo Xiang
- When did Guo Xiang live?
- Guo Xiang was born in 252 and died in 312.
- Where was Guo Xiang from?
- Guo Xiang was a Chinese philosopher of the Ancient era.
- What philosophical movements is Guo Xiang associated with?
- Guo Xiang was associated with Taoism.
- What was Guo Xiang known for?
- Guo Xiang was a Chinese philosopher of the Western Jin dynasty and the most important commentator on the Zhuangzi, whose recension of the text became the standard one transmitted to later generations.
- How many quotes are attributed to Guo Xiang?
- There are 15 attributed quotations from Guo Xiang in the 1001Philosophers collection, organized by topic.