Guo Xiang

Guo Xiang (252–312) was a pivotal figure in Chinese philosophy, renowned for his scholarly contributions to Xuanxue and, most significantly, his revision and commentary on the ancient Taoist text, the Zhuangzi. He meticulously edited the original fifty-two chapter text, removing sections he deemed superstitious or lacking philosophical depth, thus curating a more concise thirty-three chapter version. This redaction, appended with his insightful philosophical commentary, became highly influential and, within centuries, the dominant version of the Zhuangzi. Guo Xiang's interpretation emphasized the concept of 'ziran' (spontaneity), illustrating its practical application through the famous story of Cook Ding, which highlights effortless action aligned with the natural order. His work profoundly impacted the understanding and transmission of Taoist thought.