Zhuangzi Inner Chapters Commentary (莊子內篇注)

About 莊子內篇註

Ming · by 德清註

60,299 · about 201 min

The Commentary on the Inner Chapters of Zhuangzi is a unique commentary composed by the eminent Ming dynasty monk Deqing, which interprets the Inner Chapters of Zhuangzi through Buddhist thought. Living during the late Ming Buddhist revival, Deqing harmonized Buddhist doctrine with Daoist learning, attempting to elucidate the profound meaning of Zhuangzi through Chan (Zen) philosophy. The main content of this work consists of a chapter-by-chapter commentary on the seven Inner Chapters of Zhuangzi, systematically correlating Zhuangzi's concepts such as "carefree wandering" and "equalizing all things" with the Buddhist wisdom of śūnyatā (emptiness). This commentary holds a special position in Buddhist history, serving as a significant exemplar of the trend toward the synthesis of the three teachings. It demonstrates the creative assimilation of traditional Chinese thought within Chinese Buddhism and provides a valuable text for the study of the intermingling of Buddhism and Daoism.