Tenets of Daoism

The Basic Tenets of Philosophical Daoism

The history of pre-modern China is coloured by the popular belief and adherence to Confucianism which became the official philosophy, encouraging people to adhere to the social and moral standards prescribed by Confucianism. This kept every person in their rightful place, ensured respect for elders parents and officials and kept society in order. Daoism on the other hand, encouraged people to conform to the laws of the universe, following the natural Dao and developing the Way of the individual. By connecting to your innate individual nature, which meant ignoring the prescribed constraints of dogma, society and governance, the Daoist prefers to follow the path of the Dao. The following basic breakdown of the tenets of Daoism, looks at the main Daoist terms in an attempt to outline the indescribable Dao and its Way. By shedding the confined beliefs and social precepts of society, the Daoist gets in touch with his innate being thereby connecting with the Way of the universe and nurturing a mystical presence or power which enables an individual to transcend the confines of society and return to the source.

Dao( 道)

Dao, translated as “The Way” has broad and abstract connotations, which can be applied to a wide range of circumstances. It refers to the Way of the universe, the naturally occurring seasons and weather patterns, as well as the rise and fall of civilizations. Following the “Way” for a Daoist requires a certain amount of stillness and reflection, in order to perceive and comprehend the meaning of Dao and apply it to life. The flowing and undulating energies all around us also reflect the Dao and the Daoist path requires followers to respond naturally and spontaneously to both internal and external stimuli, thereby keeping in tune with the Dao.

Wu Wei (無爲)

Wu Wei translated “inaction” or “without action” is one of the major tenets of Daoism, also coined as non-interference. It requires a letting go and accepting that things will fall into place naturally without effort, pushing or ambition. Going with the flow of things allowing whatever transpires to become part of the holistic picture, is a vital component of Daoist truth. In ancient China the ancient legendary Kings are believed to have ruled using Wu Wei; a non-interference leadership which allowed the people to follow their own personal Dao. Early Daoists called for a return to the ways of ancient, primitive agrarian life and shunned the constricting confines of organised society. Every Daoist must take full responsibility for his own actions by practicing inaction or Wu Wei wherever possible.

In a modern context Wu Wei can be grasped from several viewpoints including not trying too hard, letting go and trusting that “not-doing” is sometimes the best choice to achieve a harmonious outcome. The Zhuang Zi expands on the idea of Wu Wei in the story about the great tree which every carpenter passes by because it is so big, with twisted gnarly branches that are impossible to make a straight plank from. Subsequently the great tree is there to provide shade from the sun for travelers and livestock, home for numerous native birds and insects and its very uselessness necessitates its survival and allows it to live out its natural lifespan. It personifies the usefulness of uselessness.

Ziran (自然)

Ziran means “naturally” or the natural Way of the universe. Ziran also refers to letting things happen of their own accord, without interference and with minimal influence. Daoists believe that by following the tenets of the Dao, the most ziran result will be achieved, that which is most in keeping with the way things are meant to be.

The Nature of Water

Water is a great example of Ziran, it’s characteristics changing with it’s environmental circumstances. It can be soft, nourishing and cleansing or it can be formidable, destructive and purposeful. So too can those following the Daoist Way be like water, adapting and moulding to the path unfolding in front of them.

Ethics of Daoism

There are certain (“Precious Attributes”) which need to be present in a Daoist life which are:
Love: (compassion, empathy and kindness)
The lack of excess, and moderation in all things including controlled restraint and economy so as to walk the “middle path”.
Humility: the effort of not putting yourself above others and not making others feel unimportant.
Living a full and healthy life: including regular exercise, a healthy diet, and purposeful contemplation or meditation.
Not wasting time and energy striving for wealth and fame.

Things Not to Do

The Daoist Way does not waste time worrying, complaining, regretting or agonising over things that cannot be easily changed. Instead the Daoist accepts what comes his way without reacting emotionally or mentally and uses his natural attributes to ride though storms and survive. Once “acceptance” of the Dao is achieved, everything becomes an opportunity for learning, experiencing and living. A Daoist rises above all problems and obstacles and soars to great heights through non-attachment and a laissez-faire approach, seeking harmony out of discord, usefulness out of uselessness and action as a result of inaction. Such is the “Way of the Daoist Sage”