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Only an object can suffer, but phenomenally subject and…

“Only an object can suffer, but phenomenally subject and object, being one whole, spin like a coin so that the intervals between pile et face (heads and tails) are imperceptible. Consequently pain, or pleasure, appear to be continual. Noumenally, on the contrary, there is no object to suffer pain…” quote by Wu Wei Wei
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““Only an object can suffer, but phenomenally subject and object, being one whole, spin like a coin so that the intervals between pile et face (heads and tails) are imperceptible. Consequently pain, or pleasure, appear to be continual. Noumenally, on the contrary, there is no object to suffer pain or pleasure. Noumenon is invulnerable, and cannot be otherwise. Noumenon is the unmanifested aspect of what we, sentient beings, are: Phenomenon is our manifestation.””

Wu Wei Wei

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Phenomenon and noumenon contrast: objects experience pain/pleasure, while the unmanifested noumenon remains untouched.

In simple terms: Objects feel, noumenon is untouched.

Key Takeaway

Distinguish between experience and underlying reality.

Themes

philosophy experience reality pain pleasure noumenon

Mood

inquisitive abstract thoughtful

Type

Pain:1 Noumenon Unmanifested:0 Noumenon Invulnerable:0 Invulnerable Noumenon:0 Noumenon:0 Object Suffer:0

When to use this quote

  • spiritual practice
  • academic study
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

metaphysics subject‑object dualism consciousness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What is beyond sensory experience?
  • How do you relate to the unmanifested?
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