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Tao Te Ching
THE TAOISM OF LAO TZU
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Tao Te Ching
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The Book
The Taoism of Lao Tzu Explained. The great Taoist philosophy classic by Lao Tzu translated, and each of the 81 chapters extensively commented. Click the image to see the book at Amazon (paid link). |
Tao Te ChingUnselfishness
The well-known reward for the unselfish is the praise received. Another benefit is hinted in the example of Heaven and Earth: The ones who don't live for themselves will endure, because that path is less straining, less of a struggle.
Those who strive to get ahead are quickly fatigued and wear themselves down. Impatience and discontent are poison to the mind, therefore to the body as well. That's how it works. The one who chases his own happiness will never catch it. He just rushes from the cradle to the grave. He may reach far and gather a fortune, but when will he have time to enjoy it?
The humble ones with modest demands are easily satisfied and therefore soon to be joyous. Their joy lasts, because it's undisturbed by temptation. Such an attitude towards life is appeasing to the mind and a remedy for the body.
There is no guarantee for longevity, but those who are pleased with their situation have a better chance at it than those who never get enough.
Of course, the reward for unselfishness can create a paradox. Considering such a reward, what selfish man would not try his utmost to be unselfish – at least enough to receive the benefits of it? That would be selfish unselfishness.
I doubt that it matters, though. We shape our lives and affect the lives of others by our deeds, not by the thoughts behind them. A good deed is helpful, whatever the reason for it. Considering the sad state much of the world is in, we can't afford to be picky. A good deed does good, even if its purpose is selfish.
Furthermore, it's quite possible that a selfish benefactor will be so pleased with the outcome that he forgets his original intention. That's one of the finer sides of mankind – delight and pleasure are contagious. Unfortunately, so are bitterness and anger. Another reason for encouraging good deeds of whatever intent.
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Tao Te Ching Explained
Preface
Introduction
Literature
translated and explained by Stefan Stenudd.
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The Taoism of Lao Tzu Explained. The great Taoist philosophy classic by Lao Tzu translated, and each of the 81 chapters extensively commented. |
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