RZA on Mortality, Spirituality, Kung Fu Wisdom, and the Art of Hip-Hop

RZA, the mastermind behind Wu-Tang Clan, delves into profound personal and philosophical insights, beginning with the transformative experience of his mother's passing. He describes this loss as severing a fundamental link to the universe, leading to a deep realization of his own mortality and the illusion of physical immortality. Paradoxically, this confrontation with death brought a new appreciation for the joy and beauty of life, fostering a sense of freedom and presence. He reflects on his evolving understanding of "God," distinguishing it from "Allah" as the proper name for the universe's father, and how this spiritual journey has shaped his perspective on existence and purpose.

The conversation explores RZA's interactions with influential figures, highlighting the generosity of knowledge shared by mentors like Quincy Jones and Quentin Tarantino. Quincy Jones's advice to "when it rains, get wet" encapsulates a philosophy of embracing life's moments, while Tarantino is lauded as an "encyclopedia" of film history and a cinematic godfather. RZA also draws extensive wisdom from kung fu movies and martial arts philosophy, particularly the "five animal technique," emphasizing the mental adaptability and instinctual understanding over mere physical forms. This approach to martial arts mirrors his broader view of life, where inner wisdom and strategic thinking are paramount.

RZA offers insightful analyses of hip-hop legends Tupac and Biggie, praising Biggie's immaculate voice and lyrical prowess, and Tupac's unique ability to evoke both love and rebellion, likening him to a "Malcolm X" figure. He discusses other lyrical masters like Rakim, Kool G Rap, Grandmaster Caz, and Nas, whom he considers the "Mozart of rap" for his profound depth at a young age. RZA shares his own powerful lyrics, particularly from "Sun Shower" and its prequel, which serve as philosophical treatises on character, integrity, and the consequences of wicked thoughts, ultimately connecting to a higher spiritual understanding.

Throughout the discussion, RZA emphasizes the continuous process of learning, self-discovery, and the integration of diverse influences—from ancient texts and spiritual teachings like the Quran to the practical wisdom gleaned from personal relationships and artistic collaborations. His journey illustrates a deep commitment to intellectual and spiritual growth, demonstrating how an artist can transcend their initial domain to become a multifaceted philosopher and cultural commentator, constantly seeking deeper meaning in life, death, and the human experience.

when my mother left the physical world i lost one of my main links to the universe

the word god derived basically from the greek language as they say and it meant wisdom strength and beauty

I learned that day on physical passing okay and I mean there's a physical me do you think about her you miss her of course I keep my mother my prayer every day

I'm not afraid of death i'm not trying to see it you know i'm not rushing that nowhere near me right because all i know is life right my life is living

I think what quincy was saying at that time was you know i think i was more conservative like as a person and like you know i had money women wanted me anything i kind of wanted uh i probably could have had you know what i mean and he was just saying when it rains to get wet enjoy this man it's raining on you

I humbly asked him to mentor me which is a very humbling thing to do coming from my neighborhood coming from who i am coming from i was already a multi-platinum artist

Tupac had the power to infuse your emotional thought like brenda has a baby dear mama but then he had the power to arouse your the rebel in you

the book that is the most strongest book i've ever read is actually the holy quran

Allah gives birth to God but God don't bone Allah

it's been taught your worst enemy couldn't harm you as much as your own wicked thoughts but people ought to be naught and listen wrought so they find themselves persecuted inside their own universal court