On Zhuangzi’s Dao As Oneness — The Ultimate Reality

Abstract

This paper focuses on discussing what is the reality in reference to Zhuangzi’s philosophy of Dao and Oneness. It begins with the discussion of the phenomena in our contemporary world and suggests that the cause of the phenomena today may be rooted in the way that people look at the reality. Through the issues presented, it is apparent to see that the artificial man-made contrivances make us alienated from both the nature outside of us — the physi-cal nature, and our own nature within — the inner nature of ourselves. Secondly, the overview of Zhuangzi’s philosophy and its major aim will be introduced. Thirdly, it expounds the principles and theories of Zhuangzi’s philosophy in particular with regard to its concepts of Dao and One. There is no absolute and rigid distinctions and this is the true and ultimate reality. Fourthly, it particularly explores further the two important dimensions of Oneness, which are closely relevant to the contemporary issues mentioned in the beginning: for individuals, Dao as Oneness means being One with De — the inner reality; and being One with the Now. It is hoped that from the analysis above, this paper may provide an alternative perspective of knowing what is real on both the outside world and the inner world of ourselves. Through knowing what is real, individuals may find an alternative way of interpreting the issues in contemporary world and a new way of living.