Lao Tzu - Taoism Religion (Tao is pronounced as 'Dao')

What is Tao?

It is just this.
It cannot be rendered into speech.
If you insist on an explanation,
This means exactly this.

Lu Tung Pin


Tao (pronounced 'Dao') can be defined as 'path', or 'road'. The way of the Tao is the way of Nature and of ultimate reality. Tao is often described as a force that flows through all life. A happy and virtuous life is one that is in harmony with the Tao, with Nature.

So the philosophy of Taoism understands Tao as the One Thing which exists and connects the Many things. Tao, Nature, Reality are One. The idea that 'All is One and interconnected' is not found solely within Chinese Philosophy. The ancient Indians and Greek Philosophers also understood the universe as a unity, as have many other philosophers and scientists over the past 2500 years.

Taoism is basically indefinable. It has to be experienced. It refers to a power which envelops, surrounds and flows through all things, living and non-living. The Tao regulates natural processes and nourishes balance in the Universe. It embodies the harmony of opposites (i.e. there would be no love without hate, no light without dark, no male without female).

Yin Yang is a well known Taoist symbol. It represents the balance of opposites in the universe. When they are equally present, all is calm. When one is outweighed by the other, there is confusion and disarray.
Taoists follow the art of "wu wei," which is to let nature take its course. For example, one should allow a river to flow towards the sea unimpeded; do not erect a dam which would interfere with its natural flow.

As Humans have evolved from Nature (Tao) they ultimately depend upon Nature (Tao) for their survival. Until we understand what we are as humans (what matter is) and how we are connected to the universe (Reality, Tao), it is impossible for humanity to be wise, and to be able to evolve cultural knowledge that enables us to live in Harmony with Nature (Tao).

So, the ideal of Taoism was to live in harmony with the Tao and to cultivate a simple and frugal life, avoiding unnecessary action: 'Being one with nature, the sage is in accord with the Tao'.


Source: (Geoffrey, (c) 2010) http://www.spaceandmotion.com/Philosophy-Taoism-Tao.htm.