Immense Philosophical Development in Ancient China - Essay Example

In the period of 6th century B.C.E. an immense philosophical development was witnessed in ancient China. Many spiritual leaders came into being with beliefs and religious convictions to the people. However, the two most notable spiritual leaders in this period were Confucius and Lao-tzu who lived to teach new beliefs. This was a significant time because state rulers sought advice from these teachers to expand their power. This Golden Age of Chinese Philosophy drastically turned into a time when many colleges of thought came into being. Confucius and Lao-tzu developed and practiced Confucianism and Taoism respectively, and in the process attracted thousands of followers (Oldmeadow 97). There are three meanings of Tao (Taoism) that Lao-tzu describes in is teachings and philosophical ideas. In the teachings of Taoism, the universe and everything in it follows a mysterious and unidentified force referred to as Tao which is translated plainly as “The way.” There are three meanings that assist in the understanding of the “way” described by Lao-tzu. The first meaning is that Tao refers to the ultimate reality in which its diversity cannot be conceived or understood by human nature. The Tao is not equal to anything, but this undefined and superior Tao is the basis for everything; moreover, it is a way that is above all in the universe and a mystery to human beings. In all the things of the world, Tao is definitely the greatest and its existence cannot be denied by anyone or anything. This concept for instance, perceives that Tao is only comparable to God from the Old Testament who is indescribable (Oldmeadow 96). The second meaning of Tao is that it is definitely immanent in that it is the driving force for all existence and the way that people should follow. The Tao in this case clarifies that the being takes the form of “flesh” guidance to ever which gives guidance to everything in the world. It is like an intense spirit, assumes a complete being, defeats even the most glittering existences, and exists like dust or spirit. The Tao is like a sprit and not a substance that can be exhausted and it flows forever. The Taoism bible, Tao Te Ching indicates that everything is one regardless of the appearances. It gives life to all things and therefore, Tao is the Mother of the Universe that ensures the existence of everything in it. Smith gives an example that Tao is “Graceful rather than abrupt, flowing rather than hesitant…flows with purpose” (Oldmeadow 96). The third meaning of Tao describes it as the path of human life that is related to the ruler of the universe. This indicates that human beings live in accordance with the universe and therefore, living in Tao. In addition, it means finding a balance between negative and positive energies within the universe. Nature should not be damaged or abused but rather humans should strive to maintain naturalness in all things (Oldmeadow 96). The three approaches to Daoism are intellectual (Philosophical), Psycho-physical, and spiritual (religious). Philosophical Daoism is an approach that aims at conserving “te” or power with teachers focusing of coaching. This philosophical idea was generated by Laozi and Zhuangzi in a concept that focuses on the idea of “wu wei.” Wu Wei is a term that means Quite Creativity that advocates for preserving life liveliness by ensuring that one does not spend uselessly. The concept advocates for minimal friction or conflicts within interpersonal relationships and in relation to the natural world (Haldan 10). The psycho-physical Daoism approach is the essence of enhancing the level of “Ch’i” (breath or crucial energy) through proper diet (food and herbs), martial arts (discipline), and meditation (Yoga). Ch’i is increased by ensuring consumption of necessary supplements nutritionally. In addition, absorption of ch’i is achieved from the universe and allowing inner flow through efficient body movements. Physical exercises are necessary in Daoism through activities like Yoga to harness energy directly which is directed to the heart, mind, and other body parts. These yogis were believed to have the power to purify the soul and the inner self such that an individual would observe remarkable things. Religious or spiritual approach of Daoism was concerned with searching for pure spirit that connected with the Dao. Higher powers were believed to exist that protect human life and give life. This sprit was like magic that only exists above superficial things and generating energy to the world (Oldmeadow 97). Philosophical Taoism supports various aspects that are in line with the doctrines of Tao. The most important aspect is to assume a life of wu wei which means preserving life by non-action or not doing. This is an indicates that it is important to let things flow naturally in a sincere way for instance, the way plants grow without even trying to grow. Taoism in this respect advocates for “do” but in essence without “doing” anything. Creative quietude is important since it ensures that people in diverse environmental conditions can coexist without problems. This is because human beings are not independent creatures but instead they depend on each other through the power of Tao. The philosophy of Taoism indicates that this is possible because the subconscious thoughts are tapped through relaxation and letting go (Haldan 11). Preserving life is a crucial step in Taoism because even when ego and pride distract, one can reason through the conscious to make the right decision “the way to do is to be”. Tao indicates that the basis of self-preservation is allowing one’s behaviour to flow naturally. It is an idea that allows things to happen without force or violence but instead lets Tao flow naturally. This however, does not mean indecisiveness in life but rather, simple, flowing and freedom of effective action without showing off. Smith tells the story of the fisherman who caught a big fish using a delicately constructed thread that it had no risk of breaking. This is not Taoism which relies on the idea of no strain, no force, but instead it calls for effortless acts that are not for showing off (Oldmeadow 96). The metaphor of water is used in Taoism because it connects with Wu Wei mind-set and concepts. In this case, water is power that contains things effortlessly and basically satisfying life. It is clear that water is the expression of Tao through the natural world since it adapts easily in all places. An example of this is an experienced swimmer that realizes that relaxing and letting the water support the body is effective than thrashing it around. The largest comparison of good is like water that sustains everything in the globe without even trying. Chuang Tzu argues that “it works without working” to emphasize the nature of its power. In addition, just as water is accommodative, it is also contains immense power such that it carries rocks, buildings, and hills through intense currents (Oldmeadow 108). Confucianism is a philosophy that is created and established mainly through the words and teachings of Confucius, the great theorist. The teachings focus on human achievements and not mysterious philosophical powers. The main idea in his concepts is the element of virtuous and this mainly applies to rulers. In this regard, the virtues of modesty, honesty, charity, loyalty, and truthfulness are emphasized. The main social virtue is Jen that advocates the need for love amongst each other. He uses symbols to indicate that it is important to love and treat others as you would want them to treat you. Leaders are called upon to be compassionate while subjects are loyal by following the laws set (Smith 172). Chun Tzu is the concept of people living to the ideals of Jen and required to avoid arrogance, petty, meanness, and vengeful nature. Chun tzu refers to people comfortable in their body and shows respect to others. Li is recognizing how to act and behave within the social environment. A person is expected to access personal character and understand how to treat others. Confucius introduces the idea of the Mean in which a person should make a decision considering the middle between any extremes. The Five Constant Relationships indicate the need for children obedience, elder sibling being compassionate to the younger, husbands treating wives fairy, friendships, and rulers being generous and subjects being loyal (Smith 172). Confucius did not indicate if man was born good or evil, but instead argued that men are born with certain inherent characteristics. He said that man behaviour is guided by study and practice but emphasized that human nature is without doubt good. He argued that an individual may not comprehend it is a dream when one is sleeping, and it is possible to assume the dream is real. However, once a person awakens it dawns and becomes a reality that it is actually a dream. Dream and reality are different but with the power to influence someone character. For instance, one may dream of doing good in a charity and therefore, feel the need to fulfil the dream in real life (Smith 172). Differences between Confucianism and Taoism Confucianism is a philosophy that generated from Chinese teacher Confucius that focuses on creating a good example for the society with five primary relationships of ruler versus subject, husband and wife, elder sibling and younger one, friendship, as well as father and son. The emphasis is on man as the driving force to create his own destiny but Taoism believes that a way is created by a powerful being. Confucianism focuses on a united society, assuming humaneness, and virtues for guiding people. On the other hand, Taoism is a philosophy developed by Lau-tzu that describes a way of believing is a supernatural being and the viewpoint of inaction. This means that people must not exact pressure of force in daily activities but let things flow smoothly to get the best results. A superior being guides human and individual efforts are useless while the concept also praises the need for natural process of life (Oldmeadow). Similarities between Confucianism and Taoism Confucianism and Taoism focus on how human behaviour is supposed to manifest within the society. These two philosophies focus of self-improvement as a way of ensuring social unity and coercion within the community. The self-improvement of Confucianism is in terms of relation with others while Taoism is in relation to oneself and nature. These are major schools of thought that were valued in ancient China and still followed by many today (Haldan 11). Conclusion Confucianism and Taoism are two major ancient philosophies that were created and practiced therefore, attracting many supporters. These philosophies were developed by Confucius and Lau-tzu respectively, with varied differences between the two. Taoism argues that a superior being exists and that is accountable for everything in the universe. In addition, Taoism believes in the concept of “inaction” which supports the idea that things should flow naturally without force or coercion. Confucianism advocates for individual efforts and virtues of goodness, honesty, and social unity. It also believers that people must make decisions that are considerate to the needs of others. Works Cited Haldan , Kent. “Lecture for Huston Smith, The World's Religions: Taoism (Daoism).” PowerPoint presentation. History 150. Diablo Valley College n.d. Oldmeadow, Harry. Light from the East: Eastern Wisdom for the Modern West. World Wisdom, Inc, 2007. Print. Smith, Huston. The World’s Religions. New York:HarperCollins. 1991. Print Read More