Chuang Tzu (4th c. BCE). Taoist philosopher who had considerable influence on the development of both Taoism and of Zen. He taught that all knowledge is relative in such a way that two apparently contradictory statements can both be true, since neither expresses the whole truth. He saw in nature a continuous flux within which, however, is a cosmic oneness. One achieves an understanding of all this by relating oneself to the Tao: a process that entails tranquillity of spirit that opens oneself to this oneness. The One, the Tao, had its origin in non-being. The One divides into yin and yang, producing all things through motion and rest. He who achieves relation to the Tao transcends the changing world by going beyond it to its inner principle.

Geddes MacGregor, Dictionary of Religion and Philosophy, New York: Paragon House, 1989