Asia Philosophy Reading Reflection

Zhuangzi's story of the butcher (Chapter 3, pp. 224-25) is one of his most famous and well-loved. It is often seen as an illustration of the Dao and of wu wei. This seems to be captured by Lord Wenhui's exclamation at the passage's culmination: "Excellent! I have heard the words of a butcher and learned how to care for life!"

Explain what Lord Wenhui means. In other words, explain how the butcher's explanation of his craft is an allegory for how to live according to the Dao (i.e., in wu wei fashion).

Please write at least 1 full page.