Purpose: This study re-examines the relationship between "jiao" (lit. teaching) and "xue" (lit. learning)-- the foundational education concepts in the traditional Chinese cultural context--to enlighten our contemporary understandings of education and educational research. Design/Approach/Methods: This study first lays its foundation on an etymological investigation. It then integrates two mutually connected approaches--"the classics" and "the self" as method--to present a comprehensive analysis. Finally, it critically reviews the methodology used in this study. Findings: The interdependency of "xue" and "jiao" has an etymological foundation, supported by canonical doctrines and verified by individualized experiences. The interpretation of "xue" as "xiao" (to imitate) describes the origin and process of education in which the junior imitated and followed the elder, while the extended interpretation of "xue" as "jue" (to awaken) stresses the effects and functions of education. In the classical Chinese context, greater significance was placed on "xue"--the keyword concurrently connoting the meaning of "teaching" and "learning" in the modern sense. It is misleading to narrowly render the originally meaningful word group "xuexi" as "learning" in modern English. Originality/Value: This study consults sources in multiple languages and integrates both "the classics" and "the self" as method. Based on this, the etymological investigation, canonical analysis, and experiential reflection are collated to provide a rich and deep discussion. By focusing on the core characteristics and the concepts they imply, this study also touches on the key characteristics of the hieroglyphic system and the unique way of thinking it represents.