On the Concept of the"Budeyi"(What-is-Inevitable)in Zhuangzi
The concept of"budeyi"(what-is-inevitable)refers to a universal experience that everyone encounters in his or her life.In addressing"budeyi,"Zhuangzi draws from Laozi's perspective,suggesting that one should"cultivate a neutral mind in the face of the inevitable"and recognizes that"acting in accordance with the inevitable is virtuous"While what-is-inevitable represents a passive condition,it is nevertheless transformed by Zhuangzi's philosophy into a necessary aspect of the existence of human beings,with an emphasis that the embracement of what-is-inevitable is a pathway to spiritual freedom and inner peace.Moreover,the notion of"acting under what-is-inevitable"reframes passivity into an active stance by encouraging agency in navigating one's circumstances.Although Zhuangzi's thought is often viewed as pessimistic,the idea of"budeyi"reveals a positive dimensionof it,which highlights one's potential for growth and resilience amidst the challenges of life.