He who pursues fame at the risk of losing his self is not a sage.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Seeking fame at the expense of your own identity disqualifies you from wisdom.
- In plain terms
- A true sage does not lose their self for fame.
- What can you take from it?
- Protect your identity over fame; losing yourself for praise is not wisdom.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What are you willing to lose for success?
- Is your self intact with your reputation?
Another view
It assumes a sage has no interest in public impact or recognition.
More from Zhuangzi
Happiness is the absence of the striving for happiness.
Permalink to quote #12 I know the joy of fishes in the river through my own joy, as I go walking along the same river.
Permalink to quote #14 Great wisdom is generous; petty wisdom is contentious. Great speech is impassioned, small speech cantankerous.
Permalink to quote #11
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