Daoism is a religion-philosophical indigenous Chinese tradition that has affected the lives of countless Chinese for over 2000 years. Laozi, a great philosopher in the Roman period BCE, is the central figure of Daoism (Van 54). Most people believe this thinking to be a religion, yet it does teach us how to live in harmony in this crazy world. The word ‘Dao’ implies “the path,” as well as “the substance” and “the pattern” of everything that exists. The simplicity of Daoism could help everyone in today’s world. This way of thinking goes beyond Chinese ancient esoteric philosophy. Everyone from anywhere can learn certain fundamental concepts since it promotes harmony and makes life easier.
Daoism’s entire philosophy defines the experience of living a happy life concerning the Tao teachings. In the book, a series of poems, novels, meditations, and aphorisms illustrate how to live a peaceful existence and create a harmonious society. Daoism is defined by valuing balance and the requirement of all extreme unity, as shown by the black and white Yin Yang symbols. It emphasizes universal, calm, and holistic principles like natural order and living in tune with nature in terms of ideas (Culham 3). Taoists have had various political power ties throughout history but have avoided government affairs in favor of living spontaneously. Furthermore, fame and fortune were not among their ideals; instead, they encouraged a small-town lifestyle, self-sufficient communities, and lived in harmony with nature. This meant withdrawing from many parts of Chinese society and culture, such as schooling and language.
Philosophy is precious to society because it plays an essential role in people’s lives. This is because philosophical teachings outline how a person should conduct according to nature’s alternating cycles, implying that one must go with the flow. Daoism’s belief system is characterized by-laws and acceptable behaviors (Culham 3). The laws, food restrictions, and ceremonies are all part of it. Even though Daoism’s philosophy does not emphasize rituals or action, Daoists engage in various community activities that influence how individuals and society act. Both active and passive meditation techniques are used in these exercises.
Looking at the direct quotes in the philosophy provides deep insight into managing life better. For example, list patience, simplicity, and wisdom as three of the greatest treasures. In terms of clarity, it refers to keeping things simple in your thoughts and actions to return to your source of being. Individuals may acknowledge the way things are by being patient with both adversaries and friends. Furthermore, compassion for oneself contributes to the unification of all global organisms (Culham 4). Life can become complicated at times due to the three most fabulous riches, but we all need to get back to basics. The guidelines provide crucial standards for managing your self-worth, behaviors, conscience sentences, and relationships when feeling overwhelmed.
People are taught to live in harmony by the Daoism ideology. “Tao endangers one, which reciprocates to the second and third, which finally endangers everything,” according to one quotation from Daoist philosophy. Everything is masculine while still being feminine and Neutralism’s energy provides the harmony (Van 54). These Chinese notions of Yang and Ying characterize nature in dualities with two complementary, opposing, and interdependent forces. It indicates that two halves are balanced together to form a whole. Yang and Yin are said to flow continuously and alter over time. In other words, when one component reduces, the other increases, resulting in the maintenance of balance as a natural pattern. When we examine and comprehend these patterns, it helps us feel more balanced. A rigid person, for example, is more likely to break under duress. The person should become more flexible and softer to restore the Yin-Yang equilibrium.
Furthermore, Daoism teaches us to let go of things from time to time. According to a quote from the Daoism book, someone cannot achieve anything if they are afraid of death. Nothing to cling to when everything changes, making it more relevant to today’s society. Many Eastern philosophies remind us of the two only real-life constants, Change and Death, through having a deeper understanding of the statement. Even if it is not easy, accepting this life truth can help release someone from a lot of misery and even bring freedom into their lives. The most important lesson to learn is always letting go and letting life take its course.
Another lesson from the Daoism philosophy that is important to society is the act of flowing with the flow. According to a phrase from the Daoism text, “nothing is left undone when nothing is done” (Culham 4). Natural non-intervention, as described by the following quotation, is a Wu Wei idea. Rather than fighting life’s circumstances, it is recommended that one allow things to take their natural course. It can also suggest that we should do nothing if we do not know what to do. The philosophy can be made relevant to the society by educating them only to take advantage of chances when ready. Daoism’s thoughts generally emphasize longevity, immortality, sincerity, health, detachment, Wu Wei (biological activity, non-action, and flawless Tao stability), metamorphosis, Omni-potentiality, and spontaneity which are essential to society.
Works Cited
Culham, Tom. “Cultivating Compassion: A Daoist Perspective.” Working Compassion, vol. 21, no. 2, 2020, pp. 32–41, Web.
Van, Vu Hong. “Redefining the position of Daoism (Taoism) in Vietnamese history from the 2nd century to the 9th century.” Research Journal of Arts & Social Sciences 10.3 (2020): 54-60.