Tao Te Ching

The Power of Goodness, the Wisdom Beyond Words
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Zhou Dunyi 周敦頤

(Chou Tun-i)

1017 – 1073 CE

First philosopher to popularize the yin-yang symbol, founder of Neo-Confucianism, famous for his authenticity, and major influence on the greatest Confucian thinker since Confucius, Zhu Xi; Zhou Dunyi emphasized living in accord with nature by understanding the relationship between universal forces and the best human conduct. Said to have loved grass too much to cut it, he exemplified the ideal of wu wei. He integrated many Buddhist and Taoist teachings with traditional Confucian concepts. Although an active government official throughout his life, he was mainly unknown and unappreciated working as a simple record keeper (like a modern-day journalist) during much of his life. Later though, one of his books became the basis for neo-Confucian ethics and Zhu Xi called him “the first great sage of the Song Dynasty.”

Eras

Sources

Penetrating the Book of Changes

Quotes by Zhou Dunyi (7 quotes)

“The interaction of the yin and yang through different combinations of the five agents generates all things in a process of endless transformation.”

from Penetrating the Book of Changes

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“The essential way is to focus on one thing and in action find absolute peace with no desire; impartial, straightforward, tranquil, and all-embracing.”

from Penetrating the Book of Changes

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“the many are ultimately one and the one is ultimate”

from Penetrating the Book of Changes

Themes: Oneness

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“Peace, calmness, and moderation - these are the height of virtue.”

from Penetrating the Book of Changes

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“Heaven produces the ten thousand things through yang and brings them to completion through yin.”

from Penetrating the Book of Changes

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“The sage institutes education as a way to enable people to transform themselves, arrive at the Middle Way, and rest there.”

from Penetrating the Book of Changes

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One who returns to his nature and adheres to it is worthy of all things.”

from Penetrating the Book of Changes

Themes: Basic Goodness

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Quotes about Zhou Dunyi (0 quotes)

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