“When the Master governs, the people are hardly aware that he exists” wrote Lao Tzu. This passage highlights how Taoist view passivity to govern. “Tao Te Ching” written by Lao Tzu is a classic book on Chinese philosophy that was completed in the 4th century BC. Tao Te Ching translates to “The book of the Way of Virtues” in English. This book has 81 extremely short yet poetic chapters, which are filled with a variety of meaningful messages conveyed in a riddle-like form that takes readers into deeper thoughts about how one should live to be productive, wealthy, and happy. This book along with Zhuangzi are considered the foundations to philosophical and religious Taoism. Tao’s philosophy is relevant in day to day activities where people interact with each other but may not be
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Tzu states, “Highest good is like water” (Tzu 12). In this quote, Tzu explains water is very good as it benefits everyone and everything without complaining or having any thoughts or receiving anything in return, it simply gives. Tzu also mentions that “In quality of mind it is depth that matters” (Tzu 12). He believes that just as the water’s material is deep, humans are spiritually deep. Water is extremely clear and pure, showing truth and honesty in everything. It will flow wherever nature takes it, providing benefits for everyone whether rich or poor, absent of complaints, judgement, and expecting anything in return. Tzu states, “The way is to the world as the River and the Sea are to rivulets and streams” (Tzu 37). In this chapter Tzu is describes how streams flow into the rivers which then flow into oceans. He explains how streams end up in a river which is a bigger water body and then it drifts into the oceans. As water is traveling and the body is getting bigger in size, it is also getting stronger and more powerful in its nature. He suggests that following “the way” would have the same
Tzu states, “Highest good is like water” (Tzu 12). In this quote, Tzu explains water is very good as it benefits everyone and everything without complaining or having any thoughts or receiving anything in return, it simply gives. Tzu also mentions that “In quality of mind it is depth that matters” (Tzu 12). He believes that just as the water’s material is deep, humans are spiritually deep. Water is extremely clear and pure, showing truth and honesty in everything. It will flow wherever nature takes it, providing benefits for everyone whether rich or poor, absent of complaints, judgement, and expecting anything in return. Tzu states, “The way is to the world as the River and the Sea are to rivulets and streams” (Tzu 37). In this chapter Tzu is describes how streams flow into the rivers which then flow into oceans. He explains how streams end up in a river which is a bigger water body and then it drifts into the oceans. As water is traveling and the body is getting bigger in size, it is also getting stronger and more powerful in its nature. He suggests that following “the way” would have the same