This entry explains idiom Xin jin huo chuan from Zhuangzi ‑ Yangshengzhu. It figuratively means physical beings may perish, yet wisdom, culture and spirit get handed down continuously across generations.
This article explains the Chinese idiom 踌躇满志 (chóu chú mǎn zhì), meaning calm, self-satisfied pride after success. It traces the phrase to Zhuangzi’s Cook Ding story, where the master butcher stands content after perfect work.
This entry explains idiom “You ren you yu” originating from Zhuangzi ‑ Yangshengzhu. It praises skilled people handling tough tasks smoothly, by following inherent patterns instead of brute force.
This entry explains idiom “Mu wu quan niu” from Zhuangzi ‑ Yangshengzhu. Stemming from Cook Ding’s parable, it describes consummate expertise: experts perceive inner structures instead of only seeing a whole surface.
This Zhuangzi‑Yangshengzhu excerpt features Chef Ding’s ox‑butchering parable. It advocates following nature’s middle path, accepting fate and death, to preserve one’s body and live out one’s natural lifespan.
This commentary on Zhuangzi’s Qi Wu Lun explores ending conflict and inner anxiety. It expounds relative judgments, the unity of all things, and iconic fables such as the butterfly dream, advocating transcendence over biased human distinctions.
This entry explains Chinese idiom “Chen yu luo yan”. Originally a Zhuangzi illustration of beauty’s subjectivity, it later evolved into a lavish compliment for women’s great beauty, often paired with “Bi yue xiu hua”.