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Thomas Cleary
11quotes
Thomas Cleary: A Life of Wisdom and Insight
Full Name and Common Aliases
Thomas Cleary is an American translator, writer, and martial artist, best known for his translations of classic Chinese texts.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on August 28, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. No information available on his death date.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Cleary's nationality is American, and he has worked as a translator, writer, martial artist, and Zen priest.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Chicago, Thomas Cleary developed an interest in Eastern spirituality and philosophy at a young age. He began studying Chinese languages and cultures while attending the University of Illinois, where he earned his undergraduate degree. After completing his studies, Cleary moved to Japan to deepen his understanding of Zen Buddhism.
Major Accomplishments
Cleary's most significant contribution is his work as a translator of classic Chinese texts, including those by Lao Tzu, Chuang Tzu, and Kung Fu-tzu (Confucius). His translations have made these ancient wisdom texts accessible to a modern audience. Cleary has also written several books on martial arts, Zen Buddhism, and spirituality.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Thomas Cleary's notable works include:
The Book of Lao Tzu: A translation of the classic Chinese text that is considered one of the most influential works in Eastern philosophy.
The Essential Chuang Tzu: A collection of translations from the Chuang Tzu, which explores themes of non-duality and the nature of reality.
* The Art of War: Cleary's translation of Sun Tzu's classic military text has been widely praised for its clarity and insight.
Impact and Legacy
Thomas Cleary's translations have had a profound impact on modern spirituality and self-help movements. His work has influenced many authors, including Deepak Chopra and Eckhart Tolle. Cleary's translations have also made him a respected figure in the martial arts community, with many practitioners crediting his works for their understanding of Eastern philosophy.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Thomas Cleary is widely quoted and remembered due to his insightful translations and writings on classic Chinese texts. His work has helped to popularize Eastern spirituality and philosophy among a modern audience, making him a respected figure in the fields of martial arts, Zen Buddhism, and self-help.
As a translator and writer, Thomas Cleary has made significant contributions to our understanding of ancient wisdom texts. His translations have been widely praised for their clarity and insight, making him one of the most influential figures in modern spirituality and self-help movements.
Quotes by Thomas Cleary
Thomas Cleary's insights on:
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The gateway to the Tao is open – anyone can come in. If you know how to change directions, the goal is near at hand.
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So if you are going to look for a pearl, it is best to still the waves; it will be hard to find if you stir the water. When the water of concentration is still and clear, the pearl of mind reveals itself.
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Because of barriers of knowledge, barriers of state, and barriers of action, seeing your own buddha nature is like seeing color at night.
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The gateway to the Tao is open - anyone can come in. If you know how to change directions, the goal is near at hand.
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Having one's will on the Tao is finding joy in the Tao; when one delights in the Tao, then one can practice the Tao.
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In general, the practice of the Way involves blocking off errors, stopping them before they happen. It does not value self-approval, it values inability to do wrong.
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The Buddha is like space, with no inherent nature; appearing in the world to benefit the living, his features and refinements are like reflections.
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The Buddhas speak the wondrous sound throughout the world; the Teachings spoken over countless ages can all be expounded in a single word.
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If three people are travelling and one of them is confused, they can still get where they are going. That´s because the confused one is in the minority. If two of them are confused, they´ll have a hard time and won´t get there, because confusion prevails.
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