"If one claims to be a sage, shining brightly with virtue or talent superior to others, it might be too overwhelming for ordinary people to approach." The teaching that one should not dazzle others with their bright light but rather dim it to become one with the common folk, has significant implications for us today, who desire to stand out and be recognized.
Upon encountering this passage from Laozi, one cannot help but think of Jesus Christ, who loved: (仁 is the Chinese character for benevolence, kind-heartedness, and humanity. It is made up from the character on the left which means person and on the right two persons)
It does not mean suppressing oneself forcibly or being courteous against one's will. Instead, it is about breaking and overcoming the shell of selfishness that tightly encases us, to recover the original good heart within that loves others and the humble heart that lowers oneself. This is akin to the repeated exhortations of Jesus Christ: 'If anyone wants to follow me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me' (Matthew 16:24)."
The unique writings that reflect on the words of Jesus Christ through the teachings of Confucius and Laozi are compiled in the book "Even When Full, It Seems Empty." The book naturally connects the teachings of Confucius and Laozi and those of Mencius, Zhuangzi, and Zengzi, who have greatly influenced us, with the core themes of Christianity. It is fascinating to discover the path to God through famous phrases and proverbs from Eastern classics and the teachings of the sages and to broaden one's wisdom and thoughts about life.
Why would a Catholic priest major in Chinese philosophy? "It is important to understand the teachings of Christ and to whom they are being conveyed, meaning an understanding of the people living on this earth is crucial. Our ancestors lived for over 5000 years without knowing God or Jesus Christ. However, they contemplated the absolute ruler of the world, Heaven (天), and we, who still live in the Chinese cultural sphere, have grown up under the influence of Eastern philosophy in our language, values, and customs."
The author notes: "As a Catholic priest studying Eastern philosophy, I realized that even those who have lived without the knowledge of the Christian faith were somehow finding their way to God. I wrote this article to share together the answers to universal questions that all humans have— 'Who am I?' and 'How should I live?'"
The book is composed of five chapters. The first chapter introduces the basic concepts of Chinese philosophy that can reflect on our lives, and the second chapter interprets the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, and patience, as virtues discussed in Eastern philosophy. The third chapter examines the heart according to various philosophers, the fourth chapter deals with relationships and fellowship with neighbors, and the fifth chapter collects the teachings of the sages on ecology and politics, extending beyond oneself and neighbors.
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