Definition
In Chinese traditions, the way, course or principle according to which beings and processes unfold; in Taoism, the ultimate Dao escapes fixed definitions.
The Dào Dé Jīng affirms that the Dào that can be named is not the constant Dào. Religious Taoism also develops cosmologies, divinities, rites, alchemy and communities, beyond modern Laozi readings.
To be retained
- Translate by context
- Distinguish philosophical and religious Taoisms without artificially separating them
- Avoid quantum analogies
- Connecting the Way to a Driving
Origin of the term and context
Dào means Chinese way, way, method or conduct. The character
Why does it matter?
Dào is a philosophical and religious notion, not a scientific law. Analogies with quantum physics or "universal energy" are not historical demonstrations.
- Translate by context
- Distinguish philosophical and religious Taoisms without artificially separating them
- Avoid quantum analogies
- Connecting the Way to a Driving
How can it be explored or practised?
- Read several translations of Dào Dé Jīng
- Observe a natural process without giving it an intention
- Simplify too much forced action
- Discover also the historical Taoist rites
Misconceptions and points of caution
- Dào does not mean simply "go with the current".
- Taoism is not without institutions or deities.
- Nature does not automatically give a moral norm.
Perspectives from different traditions
- Dào Dé Jīng: unspeakable path, simplicity and non-forcing.
- Zhuangzi: transformations, perspectives and spontaneity.
- Religious Taoism: Dào as a cosmic source within ritual traditions.
To go further
- Dào Dé Jīng — comparative translations
- Zhuangzi — commentary on translation