This paper aims at showing how the incorporation of Buddhist thoughts and Western philosophical ideas in Oxherding Tale offer a new understanding of slavery and freedom. The results of my investigation reveal that the individuals are entrapped in mental and spiritual bondage by their ego, desire, and societal expectations. Moreover, the outcomes of my research indicate that self-determination is achieved by transcending spiritual and mental forms of bondage. It implies embracing a lifestyle and spiritual discipline based on self-denial, asceticism, and non- action.