How Daoism's Ancient Wisdom Still Guides a Balanced, Natural Life Today
Daoism remains one of China's three foundational philosophies, alongside Confucianism and Buddhism. Its teachings centre on living in harmony with the natural flow of the universe. A new book by Michael Wittschier, Understanding Zhuangzi, examines how these ancient ideas still resonate today.
Daoism traces its origins to the sage Laozi, who emphasised contentment, balance, and acceptance. A later philosopher, Zhuangzi, expanded these ideas through stories and parables. One famous tale describes Zhuangzi dreaming he was a butterfly—only to wake and wonder if he was now a butterfly dreaming of being human. This story captures the Daoist belief in the equal worth of all beings and the constant change of existence.
Another parable tells of a gnarled, twisted tree that woodcutters ignore because its wood is 'useless'. The lesson suggests that avoiding rigid expectations can protect one from harm. This idea of making oneself 'useless' aligns with *wu wei*, the principle of 'non-action'—not inaction, but acting without forcing outcomes. Daoist practices like *carefree wandering* encourage people to move through life without unnecessary struggle. While often seen as passive, Daoism can also support political action, such as opposing injustice when it disrupts natural harmony. Wittschier's book highlights these themes, including *Gelassenheit* (serenity) and the fluidity of reality. Yet, despite its release, there is little sign of Daoist philosophy influencing modern German education or thought, beyond a Swiss radio discussion on its concepts.
Daoism's core message—finding fulfilment by aligning with the universe's natural order—continues to inspire. Wittschier's work brings Zhuangzi's teachings to contemporary readers, though their broader impact remains limited. The philosophy's blend of simplicity and depth still offers tools for navigating life's constant shifts.
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