Cutting Up an Ox
Author
Tzu, Chuang
Genre
Poetry
Overview
Little is known about the life of Chuang-Tzu, a renowned and influential Chinese Taoist philosopher who lived during the fourth century BCE. He is believed to have been from the town of Meng and to have lived as a hermit for many years. Traditionally he is said to have authored the seven "inner" chapters of the collection of writings attributed to him, the "Chuang-Tzu," while his students and others wrote the rest. He is said to have held a minor administrative post and refused King Wei of Chou’s offer to make him chief minister, saying that he preferred to remain free. In "Cutting Up an Ox," a butcher—by doing his work with "Tao beyond all methods"—teaches a prince how to live. This Taoist fable would be useful for conversation about facing challenges and finding joys in service.
Full Text*
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Source
The Way of Chuang Tzu, trans. Thomas Merton. New Directions, 1969
Type
Reading - Short Enough to Read Aloud.
Themes
Impact and OutcomesMotives and ValuesServing and Volunteering
Big Questions
What is the impact of our actions - on ourselves and others?What should our goals be? What is the best way to identify them?Can selfish motives result in positive action?Do one’s motives for serving or giving matter? How?Should personal happiness be our ultimate goal? Why or why not?Is my service changing the world or only myself? Is that enough?
