静
Stillness
Cross-tradition · practiceA practice found across multiple wisdom traditions: sitting quietly, observing the mind, and cultivating inner calm. In Taoism (zuowang), Zen (zazen), and Stoicism (self-examination). In Taoism stillness is cultivated through zuowang; in Zen through zazen; in Stoicism through daily self-examination. Across all traditions, it is the foundation for clear perception and wise action.
Across multiple wisdom traditions, from the classical Greek philosophers to the sages of ancient China, Stillness represents a key concept that continues to inform philosophical thought and practice today.
What Are the Key Facts About Stillness?
- Tradition: Cross-tradition
- Chinese: 静
- Category: Practice
- Definition: A practice found across multiple wisdom traditions: sitting quietly, observing the mind, and cultivating inner calm.
What Cards Are Related to Stillness?
What Concepts Are Related to Stillness?
Zuowang 坐忘Practice of
Zuowang is the Taoist practice of stillness
Zazen 坐禅 Practice of
Zazen is the Zen practice of stillness
Mindfulness 正念 Related to
Stillness and mindfulness are complementary contemplative practices
Qi 气 Practice of
Stillness practices cultivate and balance qi
Premeditatio Malorum Related to
Both practices cultivate inner calm through mental preparation
Bodhidharma 菩提达摩 Teaches
Bodhidharma's wall-gazing is a radical practice of inner stillness
Common Questions
静 修行 chinese i ching hexagram 52 meaning definition keeping still i ching explained explanation stillness taoist meditation history how to 静 how-to how to practice stillness practice Keeping Still teachingFurther Reading and Sources
For authoritative academic perspectives on Stillness, consult these external sources: