Analysis Of Taoism By Lao Tzu

Taoism, also known as Daoism, is an ancient religion that originated in China. The main principles of this religion are that the Tao is a force that flows throughout everything and everyone. The main ambition that its followers want to accomplish is to become one with the Tao; those who become fully immersed by the Tao are known as sages (Robinson). Lao Tzu, the writer of Tao Te Ching, firmly urges readers to understand that humans, plants and anything else in the natural world function with the guidance of the Tao. In order to live a meaningful life, and after death have the ability to reincarnate, followers must adhere to the ways of life that are metaphorically described in this religious text.

Guidelines for Taoist followers to embrace

In Chapter 76 he describes that both younger trees and younger people are always gentle. Although most people do not like the idea of being labeled as weak or gentle, Tzu argues that this is the best way to live throughout the person’s entire life. Young minds always have the ability to grow and learn. If done with a humble and gentle attitude, without boasting the amount knowledge accumulated, the person will remain like that aforementioned young tree. In contrast, older trees are on their way to dying, and look visually older and toughened. Although many individuals are tempted to carry out a tough demeanor, Tzu believes that the person will mirror the characteristics of an old, dying tree. He states “Thus it is that firmness and strength are the concomitants of death”

Tzu helps readers understand this idea by sharing an example in Chapter 16 of how plants go through generations in a recurring fashion. A plant starts out as a tiny root but as it grows, it becomes fuller and richer; eventually it produces beneficial foods (Tzu). Eventually the plant dies and shrivels up, but the life cycle is repeated with a new generation. The Taoists believe that life does not end when one dies; he or she continues to live their life. Especially, if the person had once lived like a sage, the same ways that Tzu’s text suggests, the person is instructed to not ever worry about death; it could still be something enjoyable (Personal Tao)! A final example that describes a rule sages should adhere to is demonstrated in Chapter 50, where Tzu notes that a true follower of Taoism would have no need to carry any weapons while approaching an enormous animal such as a tiger. Sages are invincible so he or she need not worry about having to fight an animal away, or even defend against another armed warrior. Any animal found in nature would never be any match for a well-equipped weaponless sage, because the person who has found Tao is the most powerful person of