Confined Quote by Zhuangzi
“The mind remains undetermined in the great Void. Here the highest knowledge is unbounded. That which gives things their thusness cannot be delimited by things. So when we speak of 'limits', we remain confined to limited things. The limit of the unlimited is called 'fullness.' The limitlessness of the limited is called 'emptiness.' Tao is the source of both. But it is itself neither fullness nor emptiness”
About This Quote
Source Text: Zhuangzi, Chapter “The Great Void”, 4th century BC
The ultimate reality transcends limits; concepts of fullness and emptiness are both derived from the Tao, which itself is beyond such dualities.
In simple terms: The Tao is beyond full or empty; limits are human ideas.
Key Takeaway
Seek understanding beyond binary thinking.
Themes
philosophy
duality
spirituality
Mood
contemplative
enigmatic
Type
spiritual
inspirational
When to use this quote
- meditation
- conflict resolution
- creative problem solving
- teaching philosophy
Key Concepts
Taoism
non‑duality
metaphysics
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you identify a situation where “fullness” and “emptiness” coexist?
- How might embracing limitlessness change your goals?
A Different Perspective
Applying non‑dual concepts can be confusing in practical decisions.
