The Zhuangzis Theory of The Three Qualities
The Zhuangzi (also known as the Zhuangzi Dao De Jing) is an ancient Chinese philosophical text written by Zhuang Zi. This text is considered to be the foundation of Daoism and is filled with philosophical insight and wisdom. A key concept in the Zhuangzi is the Theory of the Three Qualities, which is seen as the trifecta of quality, thought and action.
The Quality of the Three Qualities is seen as ones capacity to flow with life, to move with the tide and become one with the natural flow of things. It implies being in harmony with the Tao, having an open and accepting mind, being present in the moment and following ones natural inclinations. The quality of thoughtfulness implies being aware of the connections between ones actions and the larger world, while the quality of action implies the taking of appropriate and moral action based on the insight of thoughtfulness.
The Three Qualities are seen as the foundation for living a balanced and fulfilling life, one which is in harmony with the natural order. It is important to note that the Three Qualities are experienced cyclically, and so it is important to have all three in balance in order to live an enlightened lifestyle.
The first of the three qualities is quality. Quality is seen as the key to being in harmony with the Tao, as it implies the presence and understanding of ones genuine nature. Quality is seen as the root of all the qualities, since it provides an individual with the capacity to move with the tide and to be present in the moment. Quality involves having the capacity to deep into ones inner self and to have a greater understanding of life and its purpose. Quality gives an individual the capability to accept life in its entirety and to be open to the changing nature of things. Quality also provides an individual with the ability to respond to lifes complexities and to stay in tune with the complexities and changes of life.
The second of the three qualities is thoughtfulness. Thoughtfulness implies an awareness of the larger world and the connections between ones actions and the world around them. In order to live an enlightened lifestyle thoughtfulness is necessary for the understanding of the complexity and interconnectedness of life. Thoughtfulness involves taking the time to contemplate and reflect on the energy and events around oneself, as well as having a greater awareness of the results of one’s actions. Thoughtfulness also entails the contemplation of how ones own thoughts, feelings and actions will shape the future and the world at large.
The third of the three qualities is action. Action is the practical application of the insight gained from thoughtfulness, and it involves having the courage to take appropriate and morally sound actions. Action also involves taking personal responsibility for one’s actions, understanding the consequences of those actions and having the will power to adjust one’s course of action if needed. Action is necessary for living an enlightened lifestyle, as it is what brings the insight gained from thoughtfulness into reality, and is a key factor in taking responsibility for one’s life.
The Theory of the Three Qualities is an important concept in the Zhuangzi, and it is an integral part of living a balanced and enlightened life. Quality, thoughtfulness, and action are all necessary for living in harmony with the Tao and for living a life of balance and fulfillment. It is important to note that it is necessary to experience all three of these qualities in order to be in flow with the Tao. It is this experience of flow which brings peace and harmony to one’s life and allows one to take meaningful action and make meaningful changes in the world at large.
