Education Quote by Thomas Merton
““Useless Hui Tzu said to Chuang Tzu: “All your teaching is centred on what has no use.” Chuang Tzu replied: “If you have no appreciation for what has no use, You cannot begin to talk about what can be used. The earth for example, is broad and vast, But of all this expanse a man uses only a few inches Upon which he happens to be standing. Now suppose you suddenly take away All that he actually is not using, So that all around his feet a gulf Yawns, and he stands in the Void With nowhere solid except under each foot. How long will he be able to use what he is using? Hui Tzu said: “It would cease to serve any purpose.” Chuang Tzu concluded: “This showsThe absolute necessity Of what has ' no use.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Way of the Pilgrim, Thomas Merton, 1960
The quote illustrates that things deemed useless are essential because they define the context for what is useful, revealing the interdependence of purpose and emptiness.
In simple terms: Useless things give meaning to useful ones.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the value of the seemingly pointless.
Themes
philosophy
purpose
interdependence
Mood
contemplative
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- creative work
- spiritual practice
- personal reflection
- design thinking
Key Concepts
Zhuangzi
Taoism
paradox
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you value the 'empty' spaces in your life?
- What would happen if you removed all perceived uselessness?
A Different Perspective
It may be interpreted as dismissing practical concerns in favor of abstract thought.
