The Tao

Tao is the simple bult slippery concept at the heart of Taoism and its offshoot, Zen.

Tao has (at least) three meanings. In the long run you can see why the same word (or ideogram) is used. It is equally important to understand what Tao is not. It is not an idea, concept, belief or system. To be "Taoist" therefore is to follow the way, specifically the way of nature or the "way" as taught (through example) by the masters.

Opening words of the Tao teh Ching
("Bible of Taoism")


Frankly, there is a lot of silly stuff in this book. For example, the solution to theft is not to have things of value. The solution to differences in status is not to value skill.

The underlying concept is profound: namely that emptiness is useful. Sometimes. Not always. Cups, not minds.

It seems to me that this idea and others like it are the source of the Zen idea that we need to "empty" our minds, which seems to be the idea behind "Zazen" meditation.

"The excellence of a residence is in (the suitability of) the place;
that of the mind is in abysmal stillness;"
Tzu, Lao. Tao Te Ching: Illustrated . Kindle Edition. 

Many Zen writers display a contempt for "learning" or what we might call "Science". This has roots in Tao:

When we renounce learning we have no troubles.
The (ready) 'yes,' and (flattering) 'yea;'--
Small is the difference they display.

Tzu, Lao. Tao Te Ching: Illustrated . Kindle Edition. 

Like a lot of great ideas, this has an application but can't be stretched to cover all situations all the time, which seems to be the idea behind the Tao Teh Ching.  For me, the idea is to have a quiet, "empty" mental state available - a "home base" from where I can venture out into the world and all the messy feelings that go with it.

At one time, I was very taken by the concept of inaction.  We have a tendency to "jump in" to solve a problem - maybe other people's problems. It's often best to do nothing. I got into trouble once by not showing up to a Christian Youth Meeting (I was the "Youth Minister"). I felt that the best course was to let things happen without the presence of the charismatic "magic Christian". My superior felt that, since I was being paid (pennies) for that role, I was obligated to show up. Eventually over-work placed me in hospital and the Youth program needed to proceed without me after all.

Bottom line: for me, Taoism is an influence. I can in no way characterize myself as a "Taoist". 

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