The Religiousness of Cultivation in the Zhuangzi: “The Unity of Self” of Zuowang 坐忘
Religions May 6, 2023 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.3390/rel14050612 via OpenAlex
Summary
The interpretation of zuowang 坐忘 as a breath-meditation technique with a transcendental goal supports the religious basis of Zhuangzi’s cultivation, contrasting with the view that it is merely a mental state. Integrating these perspectives through the concept of qi 氣 reveals a connection between physical and nonphysical aspects, suggesting that meditative techniques are essential for mystical experiences and personal authenticity. This process promotes a deeper concern for humanity and resonates with the universe, affirming the spiritual nature of Zhuangzi's teachings.
Study at a glance
| Key finding | Integrating the interpretations of zuowang as both a meditative technique and a mental state can lead to a deeper understanding of Zhuangzi’s cultivation and its spiritual significance. |
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Abstract
From the perspective of mysticism, the interpretation of zuowang 坐忘 as the breath-meditation technique with a transcendental goal establishes the religious basis of Zhuangzi’s cultivation. In contrast, most Chinese scholars argue instead that zuowang is primarily the mental state independent of meditative techniques, and that the techniques are devoid of philosophical significance. The pivot of the two seemingly irreconcilable views is the holistic concept of qi 氣. Combining the two interpretations can lead to a consummate understanding. There is an innate connection between the physical and nonphysical qi, and the latter can be considered as the root and basis. Deep exploration of the mysticism paradigm represented by Harold Roth reveals that the interpretation of meditative techniques is a necessary step in gaining mystical experiences not contradictory to the one that construes it as mental cultivation. The mind–body transformation shows that the pursuit of authenticity and wholeness of humanity can broaden one’s concern with fellow human beings and other realms of existence, as the same process is followed in the perpetual growth and change of the universe. This allows us to experience resonance with the universe toward the goal of “the unity of self” so to speak. The religiousness of Zhuangzi’s cultivation is, thus, substantiated.