TAOISM
Among other ample contemplations of Tao, this single word directs an intricate philosophy, an outlook of the basics of nature and the whole universe.
Rather than dismaying and deteriorating the unfathomable unity of the universe, Tao encourages the human to export this unity further among themselves through a particular path.
The inevitable question arises: What this path is, and how it may be achieved? The acquisition of this path commences with the basic contemplation of the origin of the universe. A well- said quote by a Chinese sage states that, "Knowing the ancient beginning is the essence of the way."
Taoist thoughts reflect on ingeniousness, longevity and continuance, health and soundness, eternity and afterlife, detachment and indifference, refinement and emptiness, transformation and Omni-potentiality.
Taoism, a religious and philosophical tradition, has its roots planted in reverence to nature and devotion of the ancient Chinese people.
1. YIN AND YANG
Yin and Yang are one of the most substantial and pivotal ideas of Taoism. Yin and Yang showcase two halves that complete each other when combined. It is a rhetoric statement that something complete is unchanging and inflexible to any modification, therefore, if Ying and Yang are mutilated, their established equilibrium will have deviated from the normal. Both Yin and Yang could be summarized as “the cause of each other”, both precedes each other to seek balance and harmony.
In the given symbol, the shady side represents Yin, while the Sunnyside showcase Yang.
Together in combination establish a whole.
2. INTERDEPENDENCE OF EVERYTHING
According to the already established studies about Taoism, it is evident that Taoist philosophers are moved and influenced by nature. According to their dogma, everything in this universe is accompanied by its complementary opposite; the definition of one thing requires and demands the understanding if its exact opposite.
Following this idea, we may say that there is Day when we have Night in our thought process. Hot is opposed by Cold; however, it’s to be mentioned that each aspect and its opposite are in a state of flux and change incessantly.
Proceeding further, as the fact is established that everything is interdependent, Taoism regards nature as the source of understanding and contemplating life and our post or position in the world.
3. NOURISHING THE SPIRIT
To expand and mature the spirit, there are two main aspects of mind:
Emotional Mind (Hsin)
Wisdom Mind (Yi)
Hsin = to awaken and
Yin = to control the spirit
The study of Taoist philosophy suggests in a cogent fashion that the lack of control leads to insomnia and other various mental abnormalities; however, on the other hand, a firm hold over control helps one achieve remarkable feats in the physical and emotional world. Taoist and Buddhist master this practice to sublimate their emotional and psychological energies.
Furthermore, the flourishment of spirit demands the mastery of both emotion and intellect simultaneously. To control and hold the spirit in limits, one must be able to regulate the raw and crude sentiments that activate it in the first place.
4. OBSCURE MOTIVATION AND TAOISM
Tao philosophy also holds resemblance to the doctrine and maxim of the evergreen Greek philosopher Socrates: Know Thyself. It translates into the idea that by seeking the inward, mysterious and mystic operation of the mind, the pursuer comes across an undisclosed universe of navel knowledge. Adding to, the convention and understanding of psychological self may lead to the evolution of one’s soul.
