The first comprehensive study of commentaries to the Chuang-tzu in the T'ang dynasty, this book explores the fascinating interaction between Taoism and Buddhism through a reading of the Chuang-tzu. Focusing on the commentary by the Taoist master Ch'eng Hsüan-ying (fl. 631-652), Shiyi Yu argues that, in competition with Buddhism, traditional Chinese thinking took a sharp turn in the early T'ang away from the influence of Taoist-minded philosophers in the Wei-Chin period. Characterized by being concrete and unambiguous in approaching the issue of transcendence, Ch'eng Hsüan-ying's innovative reading of the Chuang-tzu led to a new emphasis on experience and knowledge. In both these respects, his reading has not only transformed the Chuang-tzu as constructed by previous readers, but also convincingly defended medieval Taoism as a set of practical beliefs that also were grounded in the metaphysics of the time.
The Tang dynasty, lasting from 618 to 907, was the high point of medieval Chinese history, featuring unprecedented achievements in governmental organization, economic and territorial expansion, literature, the arts, and religion. Many Tang practices continued, with various developments, to influence Chinese society for the next thousand years. For these and other reasons the Tang has been a key focus of Western sinologists. This volume presents English-language reprints of fifty-seven critical studies of the Tang, in the three general categories of political history, literature and cultural history, and religion. The articles and book chapters included here are important scholarly benchmarks that will serve as the starting-point for anyone interested in the study of medieval China.
The Book of Chuang Tzu draws together the stories, tales, jokes and anecdotes that have gathered around the figure of Chuang Tzu. One of the great founders of Taoism, Chaung Tzu lived in the fourth century BC and is among the most enjoyable and intriguing personalities in the whole of Chinese philosophy.
Immerse yourself in the timeless wisdom of the East with "The Book of Chuang Tzu" by Chuang Tzu. This profound collection of philosophical insights and parables offers readers a glimpse into the mind of one of ancient China's greatest thinkers. As Chuang Tzu shares his teachings, questions arise: What is the nature of reality? And how can we find peace and harmony in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty? Experience the depth and clarity of Chuang Tzu's philosophy as he guides readers on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. Each passage is a window into the profound truths of existence, inviting readers to contemplate the nature of existence and their place within the universe. But beyond the teachings lies a deeper truth: "The Book of Chuang Tzu" is more than just a collection of philosophical musings—it's a guide to living a life of wisdom, compassion, and inner peace. Prepare to be inspired by the timeless wisdom of "The Book of Chuang Tzu." Chuang Tzu's insights will challenge your perceptions, expand your consciousness, and open your heart to the boundless possibilities of the universe. Indulge in the richness of Chuang Tzu's teachings as you explore the depths of his philosophy. Through his poetic language and profound metaphors, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the nature of reality and the interconnectedness of all things. Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery with "The Book of Chuang Tzu"? Dive into this timeless classic now and discover the wisdom that has inspired generations of seekers and sages. Don't miss your chance to explore the depths of Eastern philosophy with "The Book of Chuang Tzu." Order your copy today and embark on a journey of transformation and enlightenment that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page. ```
In this vivid, contemporary translation, Victor Mair captures the quintessential life and spirit of Chuang Tzu while remaining faithful to the original text.
Chuang Tzu is the second greatest classical work of Taoist thought and philosophy in China. It has had great influence both on China and on the rest of the world since it began to be disseminated. It is mostly written in the form of fable. All of the fables are written by traversing space-time to elucidate the Great Tao and the philosophy of life. It has shone, is shining and will shine on the development of the world with Taoist wisdom. Chuang Tzu is always an indispensible guideline to the people who are confused. As we know, the rich material world cannot change the poor spiritual world. The pursuit for material life is like a shackle, which makes it impossible for people to find a final and stable home to return to. People are deeply involved in the construction of material life without stop, but they can hardly find where their real happiness is in their lives. Faced with this universal problem, the Western society turns to Jesus for a solution while the oriental society turns to Chuang Tzu’s “leisurely and care- free” philosophy for a solution. Just like Lao Tzu, Chuang Tzu always reminds people to find for themselves the root of moral character—nature and return to it. If people do not return to the root, they will lose their real happiness of life. To taste life better, people should read Chuang Tzu; to become leisurely and carefree, people should read Chuang Tzu. Chuang Tzu can help people broaden their horizon and learn how to look at their life from a higher standing point and find real happiness for themselves. This work, though named New Paraphrase of Chuang Tzu, is actually an English version of Chuang Tzu. It is just aimed to set up a bridge between English readers and Chuang Tzu.
The Tang dynasty, lasting from 618 to 907, was the high point of medieval Chinese history, featuring unprecedented achievements in governmental organization, economic and territorial expansion, literature, the arts, and religion. Many Tang practices continued, with various developments, to influence Chinese society for the next thousand years. For these and other reasons the Tang has been a key focus of Western sinologists. This volume presents English-language reprints of fifty-seven critical studies of the Tang, in the three general categories of political history, literature and cultural history, and religion. The articles and book chapters included here are important scholarly benchmarks that will serve as the starting-point for anyone interested in the study of medieval China.
The Tang dynasty, lasting from 618 to 907, was the high point of medieval Chinese history, featuring unprecedented achievements in governmental organization, economic and territorial expansion, literature, the arts, and religion. Many Tang practices continued, with various developments, to influence Chinese society for the next thousand years. For these and other reasons the Tang has been a key focus of Western sinologists. This volume presents English-language reprints of fifty-seven critical studies of the Tang, in the three general categories of political history, literature and cultural history, and religion. The articles and book chapters included here are important scholarly benchmarks that will serve as the starting-point for anyone interested in the study of medieval China.
An ancient Chinese text from the late Warring States Period (475 B.C.-221 B.C.), Chuang Tzu is a collection of stories and anecdotes which exemplify the carefree nature of the ideal Taoist recluses, sages and immortals. Named after its author, "Master Chuang," this body of work is simply referred to as Chuang Tzu. It remains one of the two foundational texts of Taoism, along with the Tao Te Ching. Chuang Tzu's array of anecdotes, parables, allegories, and fables, are often humorous or irreverent in nature. Its main themes are spontaneity in non-causative action and freedom from the mundane world. The fables and anecdotes in this text attempt to illustrate the delusion of human conceptualisations and the folly of human moralisation and discernment. Concepts such as good and evil; large and small; life and death; man and nature are philosophically examined. Whilst Confucian, Legalist, and Moh-ist philosophers were concerned with concrete social, political, and ethical reform, designed to alleviate the problems and suffering of the world; Chuang Tzu promoted carefree wandering and becoming one with "Tao" by freeing oneself from entanglement through the Taoist principle of non-causative action. Throughout human history, innumerable books have developed on the subject of existence. However, very few of these books discuss non-existence. Amid the myriads of these authors, from antiquity through to the end of days, only one, in his carefree style, demonstrates what exists, what does not exist, and what transcends the limits of existence and non-existence: Chuang Tzu. His approach was radical and subversive, not only during the time it was written, but remains fresh and surprising to readers today and readers in future, until the end of days. This particular quality of Chuang Tzu, is central to its genius, and makes it so highly regarded as both a philosophical and literary work. For a span of more than 2000 years it has significantly influenced writers from the Han dynasty to the present day. Whilst the text stands as a work of philosophy and literature, and was written with a light touch and an ear for humour, there is also a deep and important function at its core: Chuang Tzu gives important and specific guidance for those truly in search of the path to enlightenment, and the transcendence of all limitations. As a text of such richness, depth, multiplicity, and spiritual gravity, Chuang Tzu may very well be unchallenged as a written work surpassing all others. This book has been created with particular attention to helping the reader fully engage with the work of Chuang Tzu. Each chapter boasts at least one, but up to three, line-art illustrations in order to vividly convey the humorous and integral import of stories, anecdotes, fables and arguments within the text. Readers will also find that annotation and commentary account for more than half of the content. These extensive, line-by-line notes are conveniently provided within each chapter, offering interpretations of many ambiguous and hidden concepts, as well as historical and cultural references. The combination of well-designed illustrations and carefully considered annotation, has infused this book with a depth of content and graceful aesthetic.
