Lao Tzu's View Of Daoism

Like with most religions or philosophies, Daoism is a teaching of truth, an ideology that one wishes to define themselves by. However, the Dao is essentially undefinable, rather it is a teaching for one to discover on their own terms. Lao Tzu was a Chinese Philosopher attributed for the writing of the Daodejing, as well as the patron of Daoism. Daoism is the belief that human existence is continually influenced by alternative forces. Based on the teachings of the Daodejing, Lao Tzu encouraged to understand the laws of nature. He emphasized the aspect of simplicity as a key to all truth. He believed that desire was the root of all evil and the only manner to understand the Dao, or the Way, was to not act on one’s desire, thus, eliminating it
“Being the valley of the world, eternal virtue will be full in you, and you return to the state of uncarved wood.” Moeller, Hans-Georg, and Laozi. Twenty-Eight. Daodejing (Laozi): A Complete Translation and Commentary. Lao Tzu is keen on the image of uncarved wood. We see this metaphor brought up several times in the text as a symbol of simplicity. A piece of wood is in its most uncomplicated state, yet, it consists of so many possibilities. It can become anything you hope, but will not surpass its natural state without the intention or effort. Like the uncarved wood, our human existence is rudimentary and uncomplicated. In chapter twelve, the five senses are brought to our attention. Our senses are there for our benefit. We must use them
Water greatly benefits all things, without conflict. It flows through places that people loathe. Thereby it is close to the Way.” Moeller, Hans-Georg, and Laozi. Eight. Daodejing (Laozi): A Complete Translation and Commentary. In this metaphor, Lao Tzu uses the example of water. Water is a basic element of nature, yet, it is essential to our existence. The significance of water in chapter eight, is that water does not act against its nature. It naturally flows downward and takes any form that it is placed into and nourishes anything it comes into contact with. It will nourish the rose the same way it’ll nourish the weed. Often, we perform actions in the hopes to receive praise or acknowledgment. We put in conscious effort, where we should let actions flow naturally. This is called virtue. Good actions should occur naturally when following the Way. According to the Daodejing, a humble person avoids attracting attention of others. They are mindful, therefore, do not need to advertise themselves to be open to growth. One will be truly humble when they realize their own insignificance. Like water, one must submit to kindness without contention. They understand when to keep the “I” silent so that they may hear the