Analysis Of Daodejing: Classic Of The Way And Power

The author Stephen Mitchell reflects on an ancient translation titled Daodejing. This translation is a Chinese philosophical text that can be referred to as the “Classic of the Way and Power”. This translation was believed to be written by Laozi, who was denoted as the “old master”, and curator from the 6th century. Philosophical Daoism focuses on themes like “nature of virtue, cultivation of the heart-mind, and attainment of good governance” (Oxtoby 279). Accordingly, Daoism would discuss day to day problems, and find explanations to confront them in the most accurate way. They are known to share the ideal of discipline, and introduce several ideas and themes to confront the universe through encompassing way. Therefore, the Tao, wu-wei, and wise person, will be clarified in the following paragraphs.

To clarify, the Tao means the way, and can be discussed as the universal encompassing way. As a matter of fact, water is commonly used as an example. To explain, “the Tao is like a well, used but never used up” (4). Water is gentle, but it is very powerful. Rivers do not have a beginning or end, nor do they have control. The water just goes along with the water stream. The Tao must be accepting and content, and not used as manipulation. The Tao accepts both good and evil. For example, it admits those who want to be better in life by being infinitely generous. Overall, the supreme god nourishes without expecting anything in return (8). He is satisfying with the places that others contempt. Enjoying what oneself is comfortable with, is helpful to be completely present with one’s surroundings, and letting things happen as they arrive. Taking care and protecting without expecting is he who honors the Tao