“Happiness,” a term deeply rooted in both Chinese and Western cultures, has a rich historical backdrop with profound lessons to be learned from ancient stories. Through two ancient case studies, we can explore and reflect on the true definition of happiness.
In China, an ancient story from Zhuangzi’s “Zhuangzi’s Butterfly Dream” tells of Zhuangzi dreaming that he transformed into a butterfly. Upon waking, he was perplexed: was he Zhuangzi, or a butterfly dreaming of Zhuangzi? This story echoes DaoTong philosophy, emphasizing the blurred line between reality and dreams. From this perspective, happiness may not solely exist in material pleasures or external conditions but rather as an internal state of mind, transcending the distinction between reality and illusion.
In the West, we can turn to the story of Eudaimonia from ancient Greek philosopher Epictetus. When asked about the “secret to happiness,” he responded that happiness is a complete experience of life, not merely a fleeting emotion. The term he used, “eudaimonia,” often translated as “happiness,” is more accurately described as a state of “flourishing life.” In other words, happiness is not a momentary joy but a superior life condition stemming from inner fulfillment.
These two cases remind us that the definition of happiness is diverse, with each person having their own understanding. The Chinese story of Zhuangzi’s Butterfly Dream teaches us that in self-reflection, happiness may not be confined by external conditions but found within the inner tranquility of the soul. Epictetus from the Western tradition suggests that happiness is a comprehensive experience rather than a singular emotional moment.
Therefore, we may gain inspiration from the wisdom of these two cultures to achieve a more comprehensive and profound happiness. Through self-reflection, we can understand that happiness should not be limited to material pleasures or external success but is a state found in the delicate and serene inner peace.
photo source: www.pexels.com