Lao-tzu, "the old master", is said to be the author of the Taoist Te Ching.Some people have succeeded in forming basic theories despite the fact that many have spent their entire lives dedicated to the study.You may be able to gain a basic understanding of one of the world's most captivating masterpieces with a few pointers.This is how to start.
Step 1: It's a good idea to clear your mind by reading a book.
The masterpiece was written in a state of consciousness.Its teachings are older than the world, how can you comprehend them?
Step 2: Don't be distracted by your whole being.
When you read the book, be aware of the stillness of your body, breathing and sense perception, and let the true interpretation come from deep within you.The more you research, the less you understand.The Master gives himself up.
Step 3: From time to time, you can read some of the words.
"If you want to be whole, let yourself be partial."Te ching.When you feel anxiety, fear, impatience, restless, or any other negative emotions, read some of the verse.When you are in a state of consciousness, you will be able to read related verse and understand them better.Allow yourself to be partial and then read.Makes sense?
Step 4: During the time of Lao-Tzu, you can begin researching China.
Although little is known about Lao-Tzu, we do know he lived around the 6th to 4th centuries BCE.China was torn apart by six warring states.If you want to understand Lao-Tzu's times, you need to research the six warring states and their effects on Chinese society.The warring may have arisen because many Chinese elders believed morals had fallen.
Step 5: There is research on Confucianism.
Confucianism is a moral philosophy and religion that focuses on society as a whole and hierarchy.Some people think that Confucianism was a factor in the creation of Taoistism.You will be in a good position to compare and contrast the elements of Confucianism and the reasons behind it.
Step 6: Research Legalism.
At the time of Taoists, there were two Chinese philosophies.Each advocated a different philosophy.In order to understand some of the hidden meanings in Taoism, which are often attacks on certain tenets of these philosophies, you need to research both of them.The first emperor to give China's name was Qin Shi Huang Di.
Step 7: The region where Lao-Tzu lived or traveled through is a good place to research ancestral worship and local religions.
The importance of ancestral worship in China was forgotten by the people of the day.Local gods and goddesses might have influenced Lao-Tzu.
Step 8: There is a need to research Chinese culture.
Taoists believe that people should cultivate a simple, ascetic lifestyle in tune with nature and the universe, which is naturally harmonious, perhaps working to a goal.To understand why the Taoists are anti-civilization, one must know what Chinese civilization was like at the time, particularly the immorality of certain sections like the elite, and the worst of all, tax-collectors.
Step 9: A library should have a lot of books on hand.
Lao-Tzu himself, as well as the six warring kingdoms, the Chinese civilization, Chinese culture, Ancestral worship and local gods, are all part of Taoistism.You should have a variety of books on each topic, so that you have access to a wide range of opinions.It is best if the books are written by experts in their field.If you buy books from both Chinese and foreign professors of these subjects, you will get both an inside and an outsider's opinion.It's better that most of your books aren't written by Chinese professors, as the Chinese government try to suppress Taoism.Taoists are often seen as too sexually liberal even by Western standards, so Professors from China may be under pressure to write defamatory things.
Step 10: You can learn from other people who have been inspired by the Taoist philosophy.
Many people have been inspired by it.Your own understanding might be influenced by their interpretations.
Step 11: You should spend time reading the book.
Write down your questions, thoughts, and impressions in a journal as you read it.To work through your own ideas of the meanings in the text, come back to your notes regularly.The style of the Tao Te Ching is poetic and the ideas are singular, but it encourages conflicting interpretations through the use of vague and ambiguous words.Over time, your interpretations and understandings may change.No single reader can claim to have the upper hand in understanding the "real essence" of it.It may be its beauty that allows you to assess yourself through different stages of life.