列子
Liezi
Taoism · bookThe Liezi (列子) is a Taoist text traditionally attributed to Lie Yukou and preserved in an eight-chapter received version. Its stories examine effortless action, changing perspectives, the limits of certainty, and the possibility of living in accord with the natural course of things.
About the Work
Traditional attribution: this is a received text associated with its named tradition or figure.
Lièzǐ
He who knows the contentment of contentment is always content.
— Liezi, Yang Zhu chapter (traditional translation)
What Are the Key Facts About Liezi?
- Tradition: Taoism
- Chinese: 列子
- Category: Book
- Definition: The Liezi (列子) is a Taoist text traditionally attributed to Lie Yukou and preserved in an eight-chapter received version.
What Other Guides Cover Taoism?
Frequently Asked Questions About Liezi
Who was Liezi?
Liezi (列子, c. 5th c. BCE, also Lie Yukou) is a semi-legendary Daoist sage traditionally credited as author of the Daoist text Liezi; he appears in Zhuangzi as a master of effortless flight and non-forcing.
What is the Liezi text?
The Liezi (列子), or Book of Liezi, is one of the Three Pure Daoist scriptures (with Laozi and Zhuangzi), a collection of parables and dialogues on wu-wei, transformation, and the relativity of things.
What is the 'Liezi and the wind' story?
A famous episode has Liezi riding the wind — Zhuangzi uses it to contrast merely skillful flight with the sage who rides the eternal as his chariot, needing nothing external, illustrating perfect freedom (xiaoyao).
How does Liezi relate to Zhuangzi?
Both are Daoist masters of paradox and transformation; the Liezi text is later and draws heavily on Zhuangzi's themes, with Liezi often depicted as a kindred spirit seeking the Dao.