taoism – Daoism

Success

The sage finds success by following the way, remaining humble, and staying flexible. They succeed by not striving. They reject material success and search for contentment.

The Way

The sage finds success by following the Way.

“When a superior person hears of the Dao, she diligently puts it into practice. When an average person hears of the Dao, he believes half of it, and doubts the other half. When a foolish person hears of the Dao, he laughs out loud at the very idea.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 41

When one is in harmony with the Way they are filled with virtue.

“Those who follow the Dao early will have an abundance of virtue.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 59

This allows them to accomplish many things.

“When there is an abundance of virtue, there is nothing that can not be done.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 59

It protects them and helps them avoid harm.

“One who is filled with the Dao is like a newborn child. The infant is protected from the stinging insects, wild beasts, and birds of prey…This is perfect harmony.“

Dao De Jing, Chapter 55

Humility

The virtue of humility helps one find success by being willing to deal with the smallest of problems.

“Take care of difficult problems while they are still easy; Do easy things before they become too hard. Difficult problems are best solved while they are easy.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 63

This prevents issues from becoming unmanageable.

“Things are easier to control while things are quiet...Prevent problems before they arise. Take action before things get out of hand.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 64

The sage knows that every accomplishment starts with the tiniest of steps.

“The tallest tree begins as a tiny sprout. The tallest building starts with one shovel of dirt. A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single footstep.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 64

By not showing off one prevents jealously.

“Because she does not boast of herself, she becomes a shining example...Because she wants nothing from the world, the world can not overcome her.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 22

They never demand praise for their accomplishments.

“When it has accomplished great wonders, it does not claim them for itself. “

Dao De Jing, Chapter 34

They do not seek status and are not afraid to be looked down upon.

“People despise being orphaned, widowed and poor. But the noble ones take these as their titles.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 42

They remain humble and do not seek to control others.

“Since it is without wants and desires, it can be considered humble. All of creation seeks it for refuge yet it does not seek to master or control...It nourishes infinite worlds, yet it doesn’t seek to master the smallest creature.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 34

Flexibility

The sage finds success by being flexible and yielding. By offering no resistance they can overcome the hardest of challenges.

“That which offers no resistance, overcomes the hardest substances. That which offers no resistance can enter where there is no space.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 43

Water yields yet can overcome the hardest rocks.

“Water is the softest and most yielding substance. Yet nothing is better than water, for overcoming the hard and rigid, because nothing can compete with it.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 78

The sage accepts loss. They know that loss can also lead to gain.

“In losing, much is gained, and in gaining, much is lost.“

Dao De Jing, Chapter 42

After resolving a conflict they never make demands of others.

“Difficulties remain, even after solving a problem. How then can we consider that as good? Therefore the Master does what she knows is right, and makes no demands of others.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 79

Effortless Action

Ironically the sage succeeds by not striving.

“Because it does not seek greatness; it is able to accomplish truly great things.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 34

They never take on too much at one time.

“The Master never takes on more than she can handle, which means that she leaves nothing undone.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 63

They remain cautious and don’t take unreasonable risks.

“Being over bold and confident is deadly. The wise use of caution will keep you alive.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 73

They never underestimate a problem.

“‘It is better to become the passive in order to see what will happen. It is better to retreat a foot than to advance only an inch.’…There is no greater disaster than underestimating your enemy.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 69

They know that rashness leads to failure and therefore let things develop naturally.

“If you rush into action, you will fail. If you hold on too tight, you will lose your grip. Therefore the Master lets things take their course and thus never fails.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 64

They always expect difficulty as a result of any action.

“The master expects great difficulty, so the task is always easier than planned.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 63

They stay in the moment and are not concerned with the outcome. This allows them to perform at their highest ability.

“If you are as concerned about the outcome as you are about the beginning, then it is hard to do things wrong.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 64

Contentment

The sage is successful because they do not seek material things. Rather they focus on finding contentment.

“The master seeks no possessions. She learns by unlearning, thus she is able to understand all things. This gives her the ability to help all of creation.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 64

They know that too many possessions lead to violence, disrespect, and unneeded stress.

“Knowing when you have enough avoids dishonor, and knowing when to stop will keep you from danger and bring you a long, happy life.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 44

They find contentment through moderation.

“There is nothing better than moderation for teaching people or serving Heaven. Those who use moderation are already on the path to the Dao.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 59

Summary

The sage finds success through the Way. Humility means dealing with small problems and preventing future ones. Flexibility helps one be successful by yielding and accepting loss. The sage succeeds by not striving, remaining cautious, and not underestimating problems. They stay in the moment and are not concerned with the outcome. The sage doesn’t seek material things but values contentment through moderation.

Resource:

Tao Te Ching, Laozi, A Translation for the Public Domain by J.H. McDonald, 1996.

Return: Home

Usefulness

Reflection helps one shift their perspective on what is useful. A thing’s value may not be immediately obvious and can be quite unexpected. Useful virtues include flexibility, humility, and simplicity.

Reflection

The sage uses reflection to shift their perspective.

“Without opening your door, you can know the whole world. Without looking out your window, you can understand the way of the Dao. The more knowledge you seek, the less you will understand. The Master understands without leaving, sees clearly without looking, accomplishes much without doing anything.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 47

Reflection helps determine a thing’s true usefulness. What appears lacking at first may really be complete and abundant.

“The greatest accomplishments seem imperfect, yet their usefulness is not diminished. The greatest fullness seems empty, yet it will be inexhaustible. The greatest straightness seems crooked. The most valued skill seems like clumsiness. The greatest speech seems full of stammers.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 45

Emptiness

Emptiness is one of the most useful characteristics because it gives space for possibilities. It is essential for the bowl, door, and window.

“Thirty spokes are joined together in a wheel, but it is the center hole that allows the wheel to function. We mold clay into a pot, but it is the emptiness inside that makes the vessel useful. We fashion wood for a house, but it is the emptiness inside that makes it livable. We work with the substantial, but the emptiness is what we use.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 11

Effortless Action

Effortless action is useful because one acts only when it is aligned with the Way. Sometimes it is best not to act at all.

“I do nothing, and people become good by themselves…I do not meddle in their personal lives, and the people become prosperous.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 57

Forceful action and violence only causes retaliation.

“Using force always leads to unseen troubles. In the places where armies march, thorns and briars bloom and grow. After armies take to war, bad years must always follow. The skillful commander strikes a decisive blow then stops. When victory is won over the enemy through war it is not a thing of great pride.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 30

Flexibility

Flexibility is one of the most useful virtues because it allows the weak to overcome the strong.

“Water is the softest and most yielding substance. Yet nothing is better than water, for overcoming the hard and rigid, because nothing can compete with it. Everyone knows that the soft and yielding overcomes the rigid and hard, but few can put this knowledge into practice.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 78

One should never underestimate the usefulness of the small and weak.

“To understand the small is called clarity. Knowing how to yield is called strength.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 52

Or forget that the softest can overcome the hardest.

“That which offers no resistance, overcomes the hardest substances. That which offers no resistance can enter where there is no space.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 43

In fact, rigidness usually leads to failure.

“Those who are stiff and rigid are the disciple of death…The rigid and stiff will be broken.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 76

Humility

The virtue of humility is useful because it prevents disgrace and minimizes harm. It gives one longevity because they avoid retaliation.

“Knowing when you have enough avoids dishonor, and knowing when to stop will keep you from danger and bring you a long, happy life.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 44

When one is humble they realize they don’t know everything.

“Knowing you don’t know is wholeness. Thinking you know is a disease. Only by recognizing that you have an illness can you move to seek a cure.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 71

Arrogance is the opposite of humility and causes disrespect and failure.

“Those who try to outshine others dim their own light. Those who call themselves righteous can’t know how wrong they are. Those who boast of their accomplishments diminish the things they have done. Compared to the Dao, these actions are unworthy.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 24

Simplicity

Simplicity is a helpful virtue because it allows one to appreciate what’s truly important. The sage discards the unessential to focus on the Way.

“One who seeks knowledge learns something new every day. One who seeks the Dao unlearns something new every day. Less and less remains until you arrive at non-action. When you arrive at non-action, nothing will be left undone.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 48

Summary

Refection helps one find what is most useful in life. The usefulness of emptiness and effortless action may not be immediately apparent. The virtue of flexibility allows the small to overcome the strong. Humility prevents disgrace and simplicity allows one to see what is most important.

Resource:

Tao Te Ching, Laozi, A Translation for the Public Domain by J.H. McDonald, 1996.

Next: Success

Contentment

The sage seeks harmony with the Way by trying to find contentment in the present moment. Many live their lives searching for happiness. Some play it safe, some take risks, while others indulge. None of these paths lead to contentment. In order to be content one should reduce desires, live simply, and practice moderation.

“Those who leave the womb at birth and those who enter their source at death, of these; three out of ten celebrate life, three out of ten celebrate death, and three out of ten simply go from life to death. What is the reason for this? Because they are afraid of dying, therefore they can not live.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 50

Desire

Desires can be based on greed and leads to discontent.

“There is no greater transgression than condoning people’s selfish desires, no greater disaster than being discontent, and no greater retribution than for greed.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 46

If one has every possession they want they still won’t be content.

“The greatest accomplishments seem imperfect, yet their usefulness is not diminished. The greatest fullness seems empty, yet it will be inexhaustible.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 45

Pursuing beauty, extravagant entertainment, and fine foods doesn’t lead to contentment.

“Five colors blind the eye. Five notes deafen the ear. Five flavors make the palate go stale. Too much activity deranges the mind.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 12

Pursuing wealth is not fulfilling as fortunes are easily lost.

“Knowing when you have enough avoids dishonor, and knowing when to stop will keep you from danger and bring you a long, happy life.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 44

Praise

Some seek praise and adulation to make them happy but this doesn’t lead to contentment. It only leads to the fear of losing praise.

“Success is as dangerous as failure, and we are often our own worst enemy. What does it mean that success is as dangerous as failure? He who is superior is also someone’s subordinate. Receiving favor and losing it both cause alarm.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 13

Knowledge

Accumulating human knowledge will not lead to contentment.

“Naming often makes things impersonal, so we should know when naming should end. Knowing when to stop naming, you can avoid the pitfall it brings.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 32

It will only reduce one’s energy.

“The space between Heaven and Earth is like a bellows; it is empty, yet has not lost its power...the more you talk of it, the less you comprehend. It is better not to speak of things you do not understand.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 5

It distracts from harmony.

“Forget about knowledge and wisdom, and people will be a hundred times better off.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 19

Simplicity

The sage becomes content by focusing on simplicity.

“If selfish desires were to arise after their transformation, I would erase them with the power of the Uncarved Block.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 37

Simplicity leads to purity.

“Forget about knowledge and wisdom…Throw away charity and righteousness…Throw away profit and greed…These three are superficial and aren’t enough to keep us at the center of the circle, so we must also: Embrace simplicity.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 19

It helps settle the world and keeps one grounded.

”By the power of the Uncarved Block, future generations would lose their selfish desires. By losing their selfish desires, the world would naturally settle into peace.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 37

The sage ignores extravagance and focuses on the essentials.

“Therefore, the sage attends to the belly, and not to what he sees.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 12

Moderation

The sage finds contentment through moderation. They do not indulge desires, seek wealth, or look for praise.

“It is easier to carry an empty cup than one that is filled to the brim...The more wealth you possess the harder it is to protect. Pride brings its own trouble. When you have accomplished your goal simply walk away. This is the path way to Heaven.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 9

They know when they have had enough.

“Whoever knows contentment will be at peace forever.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 46

They don’t surround themselves with desirable things because it only distracts them.

“Do not display your treasures or people will become envious.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 3

They know that attending festive events will not bring them contentment.

“Other people are joyous, as though they were at a spring festival. I alone am unconcerned and expressionless, like an infant before it has learned to smile.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 20

They avoid excess and extravagance.

“The Master accepts things as they are, and out of compassion avoids extravagance, excess and the extremes.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 29

Their wellbeing is more important than wealth.

“Which is more important, your honor or your life? Which is more valuable, your possessions or your person? Which is more destructive, success or failure? Because of this, great love extracts a great cost and true wealth requires greater loss.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 44

Benefits of Moderation

Moderation protects one from being dishonored.

“Knowing when you have enough avoids dishonor.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 44

It provides longevity.

“knowing when to stop will keep you from danger and bring you a long, happy life.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 44

It renews the sage.

“The Master doesn’t seek fulfillment. For only those who are not full are able to be used which brings the feeling of completeness.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 15

It protects them from harm.

“Naming often makes things impersonal, so we should know when naming should end. Knowing when to stop naming, you can avoid the pitfall it brings.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 32

Compassion

The sage finds contentment by being compassionate to others.

“Throw away profit and greed, and there won’t be any thieves.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 19

They put themselves last and by helping others are fulfilled.

“The Master puts herself last; And finds herself in the place of authority. She detaches herself from all things; Therefore she is united with all things. She gives no thought to self. She is perfectly fulfilled.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 7

The more they help others the more content they are.

“Since the things she does are for the people, she has more than she needs. The more she gives to others, the more she has for herself.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 81

Leadership

A leader can bring contentment to others. Their goal is peace and they avoid using force.

“Weapons are the bearers of bad news; all people should detest them…Only as a last resort will a wise person use a deadly weapon. If peace is her true objective how can she rejoice in the victory of war?”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 31

Not being forceful prevents retaliation.

“What others teach I too will teach: ‘The strong and violent will not die a natural death.’

Dao De Jing, Chapter 42

Leaders focus on essentials such as feeding others.

“The Master leads by emptying people’s minds, filling their bellies.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 3

They give people freedom to live their lives.

“When people go hungry, the government’s taxes are too high. When people become rebellious, the government has become too intrusive.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 75

By putting themselves last they help others and become fulfilled.

“People despise being orphaned, widowed and poor. But the noble ones take these as their titles. In losing, much is gained, and in gaining, much is lost.“

Dao De Jing, Chapter 42

Leaders are moderate which prevents unforeseen problems in the future.

“There is nothing better than moderation for teaching people or serving Heaven. Those who use moderation are already on the path to the Dao. Those who follow the Dao early will have an abundance of virtue. When there is an abundance of virtue, there is nothing that can not be done.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 59

Summary

The sage seeks harmony by finding contentment. They avoid desire, praise, or accumulating knowledge. Instead they focus on simplicity and moderation which protects and provides longevity. The sage finds contentment through compassion and the more they help others the more fulfilled they are. A leader can bring contentment to others by promoting peace and avoiding violence.

“She who follows the way of the Dao will draw the world to her steps. She can go without fear of being injured, because she has found peace and tranquility in her heart. Where there is music and good food, people will stop to enjoy it. But words spoken of the Dao seem to them boring and stale. When looked at, there is nothing for them to see. When listened for, there is nothing for them to hear. Yet if they put it to use, it would never be exhausted.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 35

Resource:

Tao Te Ching, Laozi, A Translation for the Public Domain by J.H. McDonald, 1996.

Next: Virtue

Harmony

The sage knows that the Way is the source of all things and seeks to be in harmony with it. They do so through effortless action, simplicity, emptiness, nature, and contentment.

The Way

The Way is the true source of all things.

“The master abides in the fruit and not in the husk.“

Dao De Jing, Chapter 38

The sage reaches harmony with the Way by blending themselves with it.

“They reach harmony by blending with the vital breath.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 42

When in harmony with the Way all things take care of themselves and one becomes interconnected with existence.

“If a ruler abides by its principles, then her people will willingly follow. Heaven would then reign on earth, like sweet rain falling on paradise. People would have no need for laws, because the law would be written on their hearts.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 32

They no longer fear injury or death because they see everything as part of the Way.

“I have heard that those who celebrate life walk safely among the wild animals. When they go into battle, they remain unharmed. The animals find no place to attack them and the weapons are unable to harm them. Why? Because they can find no place for death in them.“

Dao De Jing, Chapter 50

Effortless Action

One way to seek harmony with the Way is through effortless action. The sage never forces something to happen just because they want it to. They take action only when it feels natural and flows with the Way.

“The master understands that when something reaches its prime it will soon begin to decline. Changing the natural is against the way of the Dao. Those who do it will come to an early end.“

Dao De Jing, Chapter 55

Simplicity

Another way to seek harmony is to simplify life and focus on the essentials. The sage doesn’t value wealth, reputation, or power.

“Embrace simplicity. Put others first. Desire little.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 19

They become like an uncarved block and enter a child like state which is full of potential.

“If you embrace the world, the Dao will never leave you and you become as a little child…If you embrace the world with compassion, then your virtue will return you to the uncarved block. The block of wood is carved into utensils by carving void into the wood. The Master uses the utensils, yet prefers to keep to the block because of its limitless possibilities. Great works do not involve discarding substance.“

Dao De Jing, Chapter 28

Emptiness

The sage seeks harmony with the Way through emptiness. This is a centered state where one is connected with creation. They reach emptiness through reflection and mediation. They find peace and contentment and are unburdened by thoughts or desires.

“Without opening your door, you can know the whole world. Without looking out your window, you can understand the way of the Dao. The more knowledge you seek, the less you will understand.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 47

Nature

The sage spends time outdoors to help them become grounded, calm, and in harmony. Nature provides examples of humility and compassion.

“All things end in the Dao just as the small streams and the largest rivers flow through valleys to the sea.“

Dao De Jing, Chapter 32

Contentment

They reach harmony by finding contentment in the present moment. They realize that desires and knowledge can be distractions. Instead they engage in moderation and compassion.

“Forget about knowledge and wisdom, and people will be a hundred times better off. Throw away charity and righteousness, and people will return to brotherly love. Throw away profit and greed, and there won’t be any thieves.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 19

Summary

The sage seeks to be in harmony with the Way. They engage in effortless action by not forcing things. They simplify their life and return to a child like state. The sage reflects to enter a state of emptiness where they are unburdened by thoughts or desires. They spend time in nature to become more grounded. They seek contentment in the present moment using moderation and compassion.

Resource:

Tao Te Ching, Laozi, A Translation for the Public Domain by J.H. Mcdonald, 1996.

Next: Effortless Action

Effortless Action

The sage engages in effortless action because it reduces stress, uses less energy, prevents retaliation, and helps one live in harmony.

Striving

The sage never strives and doesn’t force things. They don’t plan or set goals.

“The highest good is not to seek to do good, but to allow yourself to become it. The ordinary person seeks to do good things, and finds that they can not do them continually.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 38

Even though they don’t act everything gets taken care of.

“The Dao never acts with force, yet there is nothing that it can not do.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 37

They know that failure happens when action is forced because it interferes with the natural flow.

“If you rush into action, you will fail. If you hold on too tight, you will lose your grip. Therefore the Master lets things take their course and thus never fails. She doesn’t hold on to things and never loses them. By pursing your goals too relentlessly, you let them slip away.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 64

Useless Action

The sage does not engage in useless action which includes striving or being arrogant.

“Those who stand on tiptoes do not stand firmly. Those who rush ahead don’t get very far. Those who try to outshine others dim their own light. Those who call themselves righteous can’t know how wrong they are. Those who boast of their accomplishments diminish the things they have done. Compared to the Dao, these actions are unworthy. If we are to follow the Dao, we must not do these things.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 24

They never struggle for greatness or accomplishments.

“Act by not acting; do by not doing…The Master never takes on more than she can handle, which means that she leaves nothing undone.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 63

Simplifying

The Way simplifies and reduces.

“The Dao works to use the excess, and gives to that which is depleted. The way of people is to take from the depleted, and give to those who already have an excess. Who is able to give to the needy from their excess? Only someone who is following the way of the Dao.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 77

In the same way the sage finds things to let go.

“One who seeks knowledge learns something new every day. One who seeks the Dao unlearns something new every day. Less and less remains until you arrive at non-action. When you arrive at non-action, nothing will be left undone.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 48

Simplifying leads to a more satisfying life.

“If you want to become whole, first let yourself become broken. If you want to become straight, first let yourself become twisted. If you want to become full, first let yourself become empty. If you want to become new, first let yourself become old. Those whose desires are few get them, those whose desires are great go astray.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 22

Contending

The Way never contends yet always succeeds.

“The Dao of the universe does not compete, yet wins.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 73

Therefore the sage doesn’t contend or argue with others.

“Wise men don’t need to debate; men who need to debate are not wise…The Dao of Heaven nourishes by not forcing. The Dao of the Wise person acts by not competing.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 81

By acting only when necessary the sage protects themself from retaliation.

“For this reason the Master embraces the Dao, as an example for the world to follow…Because she wants nothing from the world, the world can not overcome her.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 22

Effortless action allows the softest to overcome the hardest. The sage embraces passivity and flows with life.

“That which offers no resistance, overcomes the hardest substances. That which offers no resistance can enter where there is no space. Few in the world can comprehend the teaching without words, or understand the value of non-action.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 43

Minimal Action

Even though the sage doesn’t force there are times when they act. They never do so with pride, benefit, or domination. They reach the desired outcome and stop. There is no need to do more.

“When victory is won over the enemy through war it is not a thing of great pride. When the battle is over, arrogance is the new enemy. War can result when no other alternative is given, so the one who overcomes an enemy should not dominate them.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 30

Leadership

The leader hesitates to act and is willing to yield.

“It is better to become the passive in order to see what will happen. It is better to retreat a foot than to advance only an inch. This is called being flexible while advancing, pushing back without using force, and destroying the enemy without engaging him.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 69

They find the minimal solution and then stop. They resist using violence because they know it leads to retaliation.

“Using force always leads to unseen troubles…The skillful commander strikes a decisive blow then stops.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 30

They focus on the essentials of food, safety, and harmony.

“The Master leads by emptying people’s minds, filling their bellies, weakening their ambitions, and making them become strong. Preferring simplicity and freedom from desires, avoiding the pitfalls of knowledge and wrong action. For those who practice not-doing, everything will fall into place.”

Dao de Jing, Chapter 3

They know that excessive laws leads to unhappiness and law breaking.

“The more prohibitions you make, the poorer people will be…The more laws that you make, the greater the number of criminals.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 57

The leader allows the people the freedom to live their lives and be their true self.

“I do nothing, and people become good by themselves. I seek peace, and people take care of their own problems. I do not meddle in their personal lives, and the people become prosperous. I let go of all my desires, and the people return to the Uncarved Block.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 57

Summary

Effortless action reduces stress and helps one live in harmony. The sage never sets goals because this only leads to failure. They do not contend and this protects them from retaliation. They embrace passivity and flow with life. If they have to act they never do so with pride, benefit, or domination. They reach the desired outcome and stop. The leader uses effortless action by not using violence and focusing on the essentials. Excessive laws only leads to unhappiness and law breaking.

Resource:

Tao Te Ching, Laozi, A Translation for the Public Domain by J.H. McDonald, 1996.

Next: Simplicity

Flexibility

Daoism teaches that life is constantly changing and no two moments are exactly the same. The best way to live is to adapt to these changes by using the virtue of flexibility. This mindset helps one stay in the moment, make important long term decisions, and adapt to sudden change.

The Way

The Way is the ultimate example of flexibility. It includes both existence and non-existence. It has shape while at the same time is without form.

“Unending, unnameable, it returns to nothingness. Formless forms, and imageless images, subtle, beyond all understanding.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 14

It is cautious and yielding.

“They were careful as someone crossing a frozen stream in winter. Alert as if surrounded on all sides by the enemy. Courteous as a guest. Fluid as melting ice.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 15

Water

Consider the flexible nature of water. Although it is soft it suffers no harm when struck. It can be peaceful, choppy, or crash as a wave. Water adjusts to its environment and flows around obstacles.

“Water is the softest and most yielding substance. Yet nothing is better than water, for overcoming the hard and rigid, because nothing can compete with it.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 78

Bamboo

Flexibility represents life while rigidness represents death. The mighty oak tree appears strong but refuses to bend in the storm. The bamboo appears weak but bends with the wind and survives.

“The living are soft and yielding; the dead are rigid and stiff. Living plants are flexible and tender; the dead are brittle and dry. Those who are stiff and rigid are the disciple of death. Those who are soft and yielding are the disciples of life.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 74

The sage knows that what has deep roots will survive.

“That which is well built will never be torn down. That which is well latched can not slip away. Those who do things well will be honored from generation to generation.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 54

Passive Energy

The sage is flexible because they embrace passive energy. Like a mother they care for others but don’t need to dominate.

“Can you love people and lead them without forcing your will on them? When Heaven gives and takes away can you be content with the outcome? When you understand all things can you step back from your own understanding?Giving birth and nourishing, making without possessing, expecting nothing in return. To grow, yet not to control: This is the mysterious virtue.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 10

They are reflective and yielding.

“The female overcomes the male by the power of her position. Her tranquility gives rise to her humility.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 61

They are always ready to retreat.

“It is better to become the passive in order to see what will happen. It is better to retreat a foot than to advance only an inch.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 69

Force

The sage does not need to be forceful because they know that gain can come from loss.

“In losing, much is gained, and in gaining, much is lost. What others teach I too will teach: ‘The strong and violent will not die a natural death.'”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 42

They never need to argue.

“Wise men don’t need to debate; men who need to debate are not wise.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 81

They don’t contend yet still finds success.

“The Dao of the universe does not compete, yet wins.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 73

Moderation

Flexibility helps the sage find balance in their own life. They recognize that some things need to be reduced while others expanded. Some situations require strength while others weakness.

“If you want something to return to the source, you must first allow it to spread out. If you want something to weaken, you must first allow it to become strong. If you want something to be removed, you must first allow it to flourish. If you want to possess something, you must first give it away. This is called the subtle understanding of how things are meant to be. The soft and pliable overcomes the hard and inflexible.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 36

Summary

The sage uses the virtue of flexibility and lives in the moment. Like water they adjust to their environment and move around obstacles. They follow the nature of bamboo and yield in the face of adversity. The sage doesn’t hesitate to be passive and reflective. They know that gain comes from loss and never feel the need to contend. Flexibility helps one find balance in their own life.

Resource:

Tao Te Ching, Laozi, A Translation for the Public Domain by J.H. McDonald, 1996.

Next: Leadership

Moderation

The sage uses moderation in their life to eliminate extreme behavior. They avoid overindulgence on one end and severe self-denial on the other. Moderation reduces stress, improves health, and sets one up for a more balanced lifestyle.

Treasures

Moderation is one of the three most important virtues in Daoism.

“There are three jewels that I cherish: compassion, moderation, and humility.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 67

It allows one to be generous because it saves resources that can be shared with others.

“With moderation, you will be able to give to others…abandoning moderation while being benevolent…will only lead to greater trouble.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 67

Living in moderation reduces jealousy by showing others how to live simply.

“There is nothing better than moderation for teaching people or serving Heaven. Those who use moderation are already on the path to the Dao. Those who follow the Dao early will have an abundance of virtue.“

Dao De Jing, Chapter 59

It leads to a longer healthier life and helps one prioritize what is most important.

“This is spoken of as the deep root and the firm trunk, the Way to a long life and great spiritual vision.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 59

Balance

The sage uses moderation to reach balance in their life. Each individual has to find the balance that works for them. They have to determine the proper level of indulgence and restraint in each part of their life.

“The greatest fullness seems empty.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 45

The level of aggressiveness and passivity.

“If you want something to weaken, you must first allow it to become strong.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 36

How much they like or dislike something.

“If you want something to be removed, you must first allow it to flourish.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 36

Their level of coordination and un-coordination.

“The most valued skill seems like clumsiness.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 45

Their balance between eloquence and silence.

“The greatest speech seems full of stammers.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 45

The sage works to reach proper balance in all parts of their life through the use of moderation.

Yin and Yang

As the individual begins to find balance in their life they start to recognize that the universe is a mixture of passive and active energy.

“All things carry Yin yet embrace Yang.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 42

These forces rely on each other for existence and relativity. Beauty has no meaning without ugliness. Good has no value without bad.

“When people see things as beautiful, ugliness is created. When people see things as good, evil is created.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 2

Happiness doesn’t mean anything unless you can compare it to sadness.

“Good fortune has its roots in disaster, and disaster lurks with good fortune. Who knows why these things happen, or when this cycle will end?”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 58

Taking this idea a step further one can define existence and non-existence as well as non-being and being.

“Being and non-being produce each other.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 2

Summary

The sage uses moderation to eliminate extreme behavior which helps reduces stress and improve health. It allows one to be more generous, less jealous, and put things into perspective. The sage works to reach proper balance in all parts of their life. They recognize that all aspects of the universe has a mixture of both passive and active energy which relies on each other for existence.

Resource:

Tao Te Ching, Laozi, A Translation for the Public Domain by J.H. McDonald, 1996.

Next: Humility

Virtue

Daoism teaches that if one is in harmony with the Way they will effortlessly enter an authentic state of virtue where they are compassionate, moderate, humble, and flexible.

Effortless

The sage follows the Way because it is the highest path.

“The master abides in the fruit and not in the husk. She dwells in the Dao, and not with the things that hide it. This is how she increases in wisdom.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 38

When in harmony with the Way one effortlessly enters a state of virtue.

The greatest virtue you can have comes from following only the Dao; which takes a form that is intangible and evasive.“

Dao De Jing, Chapter 21

Striving

The sage never strives for virtue because this is forced and superficial.

“No one tells them to honor the Dao and its virtue, it happens all by itself. So the Dao gives them birth, and its virtue cultivates them, cares for them, nurtures them, gives them a place of refuge and peace, helps them to grow and shelters them.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 51

If one actively tries to be virtuous it is artificial and insincere.

“When the Dao is forgotten, there is righteousness. When righteousness is forgotten, there is morality. When morality is forgotten, there is the law. The law is the husk of faith, and trust is the beginning of chaos.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 38

Virtues

The sage has compassion for all people.

“The Master’s mind is shut off from the world. Only for the sake of the people does she muddle her mind. They look to her in anticipation. Yet she treats them all as her children.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 49

They are benevolent, righteous, wise, knowledgeable, flexible, and loyal.

“The kind person acts from the heart, and accomplishes a multitude of things. The righteous person acts out of pity, yet leaves many things undone. The moral person will act out of duty, and when no one will respond will roll up his sleeves and use force.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 38

The three most important virtues are compassion, moderation, and humility.

“There are three jewels that I cherish: compassion, moderation, and humility.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 67

Leadership

For this reason ancient leaders didn’t seek to teach virtue, but encouraged others to follow the Way.

“Forget about knowledge and wisdom, and people will be a hundred times better off. Throw away charity and righteousness, and people will return to brotherly love. Throw away profit and greed, and there won’t be any thieves. These three are superficial and aren’t enough to keep us at the center of the circle.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 19

Summary

If one is in harmony with the Way they will effortlessly enter a state of virtue. The sage never strives for virtue because this is forced, superficial, and insincere. They are benevolent, righteous, wise, knowledgeable, flexible, and loyal but the three most important virtues are compassion, moderation, and humility. Ancient leaders didn’t teach virtue but encouraged others to follow the Way.

Resource:

Tao Te Ching, Laozi, A Translation for the Public Domain by J.H. McDonald, 1996.

Next: Compassion

Compassion

The Dao De Jing outlines how one can live according to the Way of existence. Compassion is considered one of the three treasure of the Way and involves helping those that are rejected, weak, and alone.

“There are three jewels that I cherish: compassion, moderation, and humility. With compassion, you will be able to be brave.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 67

Live for Others

The sage sees others as themself. They empathize with families, towns, nations, and the entire world.

“Then observe the person for what the person does, and observe the family for what it does, and observe the community for what it does, and observe the country for what it does, and observe the world for what it does.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 54

They love the world as much as their own body.

“Love the whole world as if it were your self; then you will truly care for all things.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 13

They become fulfilled by putting themselves last.

“The Master puts herself last; and finds herself in the place of authority. She detaches herself from all things; Therefore she is united with all things. She gives no thought to self. She is perfectly fulfilled.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 7

Isolated

The sage helps those who are alone or isolated. They make sure that people have what they need to survive.

“Thus the Master is willing to help everyone, and doesn’t know the meaning of rejection. She is there to help all of creation, and doesn’t abandon even the smallest creature. This is called embracing the light.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 27

They help those who are rejected.

“The supreme good is like water, which benefits all of creation without trying to compete with it. It gathers in unpopular places. Thus it is like the Dao.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 8

They see the small and protect the weak.

“To understand the small is called clarity. Knowing how to yield is called strength. To use your inner light for understanding regardless of the danger is called depending on the Constant.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 52

Faithful

Compassion can be challenging because it means being good to those who are not good. Being faithful to those who are not faithful.

“Those who are good she treats as good. Those who aren’t good she also treats as good. This is how she attains true goodness. She trusts people who are trustworthy. She also trusts people who aren’t trustworthy.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 49

To return the animosity of others with compassion.

“If you give evil nothing to oppose, then virtue will return by itself.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 60

Summary

Compassion is one of the three treasure of the Way and involves the sage loving the world has much as themself. They are fulfilled by putting themself last. The sage helps those who are alone and make sure people have what they need. They help the rejected, small, and weak. Compassion an be challenging because it means returning the animosity of others with virtue.

Resource:

Tao Te Ching, Laozi, A Translation for the Public Domain by J.H. McDonald, 1996.

Next: Moderation

The Way

The Way is the flow of the universe and all of creation. It is called the Way for convenience sake.

“Because I do not know its name, I call it the Dao. If forced to give it a name, I would call it great.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 25

Created All Things

The Way is the source.

“The Dao is the tabernacle of creation, it is a treasure for those who are good, and a place of refuge for those who are not.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 62

It created the first which multiplied into all things.

“The Dao gave birth to One. The One gave birth to Two. The Two gave birth to Three. The Three gave birth to all of creation.

Dao De Jing, Chapter 42

It formed heaven, earth, and everything in existence.

“The nameless is the boundary of Heaven and Earth. The named is the mother of creation.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 1

It brought about plants, animals, insects, and creatures both large and small. It made all things animate.

“It may be regarded as the Mother of the universe.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 25

Nothing can escape it and it is found everywhere.

“The nets of Heaven are wide, but nothing escapes its grasp.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 73

Virtue

The Way is the source of all virtue and morality.

“It gives them life without wanting to posses them, and cares for them expecting nothing in return. It is their master, but it does not seek to dominate them. This is called the dark and mysterious virtue.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 51

It is always impartial.

“The Dao does not choose sides, the good person receives from the Dao because she is on its side.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 79

This differs from human morality which is capricious and unjust.

“The Dao is nameless and unchanging. Although it appears insignificant, nothing in the world can contain it. If a ruler abides by its principles, then her people will willingly follow. Heaven would then reign on earth, like sweet rain falling on paradise. People would have no need for laws, because the law would be written on their hearts.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 32

Paradox

It is such a paradox that it can’t be understood by the human mind. It is so complex that it can’t be adequately described in words.

“The Dao that can be described is not the eternal Dao. The name that can be spoken is not the eternal name.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 1

It was in existence before creation.

“It is hidden but always present. I don’t know who gave birth to it. It is older than the concept of God.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 4

It is changeless yet runs in cycles.

“Before the universe was born there was something in the chaos of the heavens. It stands alone and empty, solitary and unchanging. It is ever present and secure.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 25

It is found in all things, yet is hidden.

“Even though the Dao is intangible and evasive, we are able to know it exists. Intangible and evasive, yet it has a manifestation. Secluded and dark, yet there is a vitality within it.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 21

It includes both existence and non-existence. Both creation and nothingness.

“Its highest is not bright. Its depths are not dark. Unending, unnameable, it returns to nothingness. Formless forms, and imageless images, subtle, beyond all understanding.“

Dao De Jing, Chapter 14

It has both physical form and formlessness.

“Freed from desire, you can see the hidden mystery. By having desire, you can only see what is visibly real. Yet mystery and reality emerge from the same source.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 1

It accomplishes everything yet is yielding and demands no honor.

“When it has accomplished great wonders, it does not claim them for itself. It nourishes infinite worlds, yet it doesn’t seek to master the smallest creature. Since it is without wants and desires, it can be considered humble. All of creation seeks it for refuge yet it does not seek to master or control. Because it does not seek greatness; it is able to accomplish truly great things.”

Dao De Jing, Chapter 34

Summary

The Way is the flow of creation. It has always been in existence and is the source of all things including heaven, earth, and all beings. Nothing can escape it and it is found everywhere. It is the source of all virtue and morality. It is such a paradox that it can’t be understood by the human mind. It is changeless yet runs in cycles. It is in everything yet is hidden. It has no form yet it gives form to all things. It includes both existence and non-existence. It is yielding yet accomplishes everything.

Resource:

Tao Te Ching, Laozi, A Translation for the Public Domain by J.H. Mcdonald, 1996.

Next: Harmony