Zhuangzi Quotes
Zhuangzi was a Chinese Taoist philosopher of the fourth century BC, regarded with Lao Tzu as one of the two foundational figures of philosophical Taoism. The book that bears his name is one of the masterpieces of classical Chinese literature, combining philosophical argument with parable, paradox, dream sequences, and humour. The quotes below are attributed to Zhuangzi, organized by topic.
Zhuangzi on Happiness
-
Attributed to Zhuangzi:
“When the shoe fits, the foot is forgotten.”
-
Attributed to Zhuangzi:
“Happiness is the absence of striving for happiness.”
Zhuangzi on Knowledge
-
Attributed to Zhuangzi:
“Great knowledge is broad and unhurried; little knowledge is cramped and busy.”
-
Attributed to Zhuangzi:
“He who knows the activity of Heaven and the activity of man is perfect.”
Zhuangzi on Mind
-
Attributed to Zhuangzi:
“Once upon a time, I, Zhuangzi, dreamt I was a butterfly, fluttering hither and thither, to all intents and purposes a butterfly. I was conscious only of my happiness as a butterfly, unaware that I was Zhuangzi.”
-
Attributed to Zhuangzi:
“Flow with whatever may happen, and let your mind be free: stay centred by accepting whatever you are doing.”
Zhuangzi on Nature
-
Attributed to Zhuangzi:
“Just rest in inaction, and things will transform themselves.”
Zhuangzi on Truth
-
Attributed to Zhuangzi:
“Words are for capturing meaning; once you have grasped the meaning, you can forget the words.”
Zhuangzi on Virtue
-
Attributed to Zhuangzi:
“The wise man knows that it is better to sit on the banks of a remote mountain stream than to be emperor of the whole world.”