Taoist philosophy is based on the three main pillars of simplicity, patience, and compassion.

Lao-Tzu said that these three principles are our greatest treasures. He further explained that by being simple in actions and in thoughts, we return to the source of being.

What Do Taoists Believe?

What Are The Main Rules of Taoism?

The important Taoist principles to remember are inaction, simplicity and living in harmony with nature.

In addition, Taoist philosophical principle rested on a belief in the law of unity of the two opposite forces: yin and yang.

Who Was Lao-Tzu?

Lao Tzu was an ancient Chinese writer and philosopher.

He was the founder of philosophical Taoism and the apparent author of the Tao Te Ching, a collection of texts illustrating the fundamental Taoist teachings.

He is believed to have lived during the 6th century B.C. and is regarded as a pivotal figure in Chinese culture. Lao-Tzu is thought of as the father of Chinese Taoism.

Lao Tzu’s teachings have been passed down through the centuries and have influenced many people from many walks of life, regardless of religion or culture.

What Are Some Essential Teachings of the Tao?

Learn to value simplicity, patience, compassion.

As mentioned, these three are thought of as our greatest treasures.

Be simple in actions and thoughts, this way we return to the source of being. Have patience with both friends and enemies; we simply act in accordance with the way things are. And by being compassionate toward ourselves, we reconcile all beings in the world.

Go with the flow.

In life, rather than fighting against the conditions in our lives, we can allow things to take their natural course. A popular quote from Lao-Tzu is: “When nothing is done, nothing is left undone.”

Let go.

Many Eastern philosophies remind us of the only true constants in life, that being change and death.

While not an easy thing to do, accepting these facts of life can release you from much suffering and bring freedom in life. We must remember to let go, allowing life to take its course.

Another quote from Lao-Tzu reads: “If you realize that all things change, there is nothing you will try to hold on to.”

What Is The Symbol of Taoism?

The most well-known symbol from Taoism is the Chinese yin yang.

The yin yang is a symbolic representation of the world’s polarities, dualisms, and fundamental distinctions: light and dark, male and female, life and death.

What Is The Main Goal of Taoism?

The basic ideas were to enable people to realize that since human life is really only a small part of a larger process of nature, the only human actions which ultimately make sense are those which are in accordance with the flow of Nature (Tao, or the Way).

More Taoist Quotes

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

― Lao Tzu

“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”

― Lao Tzu

Final Thoughts

Within Taoist philosophy, we’re all fundamentally connected.

Help those who are simply extended expressions of our own nature. But at the same time, be true to yourself, be authentic. Connect to the world as you wish to be treated.

For those unwilling to accept us for who we are, no action is required.

Thanks for reading, please comment or follow the links.

Sources and other reading:

Taoism – An Overview

What is Taoism All About?

How to Begin a Spiritual Path

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