Thinker × theme

Wang Yangming quotes on knowledge

5 verified English passages where Wang Yangming’ s thought meets questions of knowledge.

Wang Yangming on knowledge

Wang Yangming (1472–1529) approaches knowledge within Neo-Confucianism. Principle is present in mind; genuine knowledge is inseparable from action, and moral insight requires removing selfish obstruction. Systematically, the teaching links mind, knowledge, action into a practical and theoretical whole. On this page, the archive isolates English passages where that project meets knowledge most directly—useful for searches such as “wang yangming quotes on knowledge.”

How to use this page

Start with the shortest passage, then compare tone across sources. Return to the Wang Yangming thinker page for biography and to the knowledge theme for other voices on the same question.

Frequently asked

What did Wang Yangming say about knowledge?

The quotations below are the archive’s curated answer: English renderings selected for clarity and attribution, not a complete corpus.

Where else should I read after wang yangming on knowledge?

Related themes: Philosophy , Self , Freedom , Life , Wisdom , Nature .

  1. Knowledge is the directing idea of action; action is the effort of knowledge. Knowledge is the beginning of action; action is the completion of knowledge.
    Q0171
    Instructions for Practical Living, Juan Shang
  2. There has never been one who truly knows and yet does not act. If one knows but does not act, that is simply not yet knowing.
    Q0172
    Instructions for Practical Living, Juan Shang
  3. Extend the innate good knowing.
    Q0173
    Instructions for Practical Living et al.
  4. That little bit of innate knowing of yours is your own criterion.
    Q0298
    Instructions for Practical Living
  5. Knowing is the beginning of acting; acting is the completion of knowing.