📖 Overview
This chapter argues that human nature has been corrupted by civilization and can only be restored by returning to simplicity. The "mending" (缮) of one's nature requires stripping away the layers of learning, ambition, and social conditioning that have buried the original self.
Zhuangzi contrasts the ancient sages, who lived in simplicity and silence, with the modern world, where people are overwhelmed by information, ambition, and anxiety. The path back to wholeness is not through more learning but through unlearning — returning to the "uncarved block" (朴) oforiginal human nature.
🏮 Famous Stories & Parables
🏮 Return to Simplicity
In ancient times, people lived in simplicity — they knew nothing of learning or ambition, and their nature was whole. Today, people are buried under layers of knowledge and desire. 'Mending' one's nature means stripping away these layers, returning to the uncarved block of original simplicity.