Zhuangzi

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Zhuangzi.

Zhuangzi (C. 莊子) (369–286 BCE). A famous Chinese sage and philosopher who lived during the Warring States period of Chinese History.

Charles Muller states:

He is regarded to be a transmitter, as well as a major innovator of the Daoist teachings of Laozi. His proper name was Zhuang Zhou (莊周), styled Zixiu (子休). Originally a minor official in charge of the cultivation of lacquer trees (漆園) who gave up officialdom, pursuing a life of natural living and philosophical inquiry. He is known especially for his trenchant critiques of Confucian thought and for his critique of language, which would bring a powerful influence on Chan Buddhism.

He is the reputed author of a work by the same name (the Zhuangzi). His philosophy is characterized by an emphasis on naturalness in oneʼs life and actions and tongue-in-cheek criticism of unchecked intellectuality. The earliest biography of Zhuangzi is found in the Shiji 史記 by Sima Qian 司馬遷 (BCE 145-86 ?). He was a contemporary of King Hui 惠王 of Liang 梁 and King Xuan 宣王 of Chi 齊. [source(s): Gakken](Charles Muller)

See also

• Zhuangzi (book)

Further reading

• Zhuangzi, Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
• Zhuang Zhou, Wikipedia