What is the Dao?

In Daoism, the Dao is a near unexplainable “force” if you will. The term “Dao” is used throughout Chinese religions and tradition but may mean slightly different concepts. All things considering nature, seasons and the natural universe can be the Dao. Daoist practice Tai Chi, a martial art in defense and response to another’s actions. I can compare the concept of Dao to Tai Chi because both deal with reacting with the flow of the natural universe rather than asserting yourself into something. Dao is all around us and works by use of this natural flow. Of course, I believe “the force” in Star Wars was inspired by the concept of Dao or “Chi” in Daoism. I say this because both concepts have a natural, spiritual and deeper meaning to the power within one’s self.

“Practice not-doing, and everything will fall into place. The Tao is like a well: used but never used up. It is like the eternal void: filled with infinite possibilities” (The Dao De Jing). This quote from The Dao De Jing, a famous Chinese philosophical text attributed to Lao Tzu, describes that peace and order can be achieved by non-action, and that the Dao is not something that can be used up, but something that can be continuously used forever, with the options of many different experiences and opportunities to offer. I’m giving this quote as an example that Dao is used as an inspiration for many fantasy fiction films or books, like Star Wars, Avatar: The Last Airbender and others that deal with a force or power that is infinite and draws from nature or non-action. “Weapons are the tools of fear; a decent man will avoid them except in the direst necessity and, if compelled, will use them only with the utmost restraint. Peace is his highest value. If the peace has been shattered, how can he be content? His enemies are not demons, but human beings like himself. He doesn't wish them personal harm. Nor does he rejoice in victory. How could he rejoice in victory and delight in the slaughter of men? He enters a battle gravely, with sorrow and with great compassion, as if he were attending a funeral (The Dao De Jing). This is one of my favorite quotes from The Dao De Jing. To me this quote means the difference between wanting to do something and having to do it. In terms of war, many books and films star a heroic solider that is willing to do what must be done but doesn’t enjoy the brutality of battle, although they will do what they have to in order to preserve their mission or save their comrade. On the other hand there is often a villainous character that seemingly enjoys killing or being violent, or maybe an entire side is depicted as the “bad guys”. This quote describes a man that holds the Dao value within him, only reacting to another’s actions, and one who does not, creates action with brutality or violent means, with enjoyment. I also like this quote because it gives the impression that violence should feel unnatural and having to participate in violence could cause a gentle or peaceful man trauma, which is common within people coming back from war.

The concept of Dao, with the explanation that is possible, is a very wise concept. The value of Dao can be compared to other morals in many religions but has does have a unique concept of action, non-action and the natural universe not quite like karma in Buddhism or Hinduism. Dao is a moral and philosophical teaching with great insights on how one can obtain peace within and how one can react to life with understanding. I personally enjoy the concept in Dao and believe in it whole heartedly. I know some things seem easier said than done but I do feel an unnaturalness about unthoughtful action, while thoughtful intent with reaction seems to bring more peace into my life.