What is Tao?
By consciously observing the cosmos, the living beings, the earthly activities and all phenomena, we will find the existence of the laws of nature. There is a supernatural origin, which guides all operations happening across the galaxy, the earth and the human beings. We call this source “Tao.”
Tao existed before primordial time, before the universe was formed. It is the origin of the world, and it therefore nurtures all creatures and beings. Since Tao is unchangeable and does not evolve with time, it is the ultimate truth. It is what all saints and sages throughout human history have been searching for.
The essence of Tao is the foundation of nature. This law, or power, which existed before the universe was formed, is beyond description because it precedes all civilizations, creatures and languages. Since no name could be applied, we simply call it “Tao.”
After the mutations of the universe, the world was formed. The actions of seasonal changes, rhythms of time and tide, and the balances of the earthly ecosystem were created in harmony. These are the laws of nature. This is also the extension of that original “Tao” when it was substantiated and materialized. The Tao merged into everything that is with and within us.
Now we know Tao is present universally. However, it is difficult to be recognized. There have been prophets and preachers trying to let us know and understand the origin and truth of life through various teachings and literature since the beginning of civilization. They were scattered around the world throughout history. Great commandments were taught to disciples. Goodness and badness were differentiated. These teachings varied, based on differences in culture, background, timing and the level of each individual’s comprehension. However, they all tried to express and transmit the awareness of the Creator to their descendants. Some call it “God”. We call it “Tao.”
As we get to know Tao more and more, we will realize that the essence of Tao and its effect includes everything in existence without exception.
Tao is actually the headwaters of all religions. It embraces the essence of all the preaching and teachings. And yet, it is superior to the system of “belief”. It is nature, the universe itself. “Tao” or “God” represents the highest authority and power of nature. It is also superior to all because it is the unchangeable principle.
Understanding Tao allows us not only to discover the center of all religious belief, but also to communicate with the origin and the highest power of nature. We will then be able to relate ourselves to the truth of the universe.
【To probe further】:
Tao existed before the formation of all, and continues to this day. Therefore Tao is not limited. Everything else created however large or small can be measured and detected. It is only Tao that cannot be measured by immensity, nor detected by existence.
Tao is larger than the largest and leaves nothing excluded. Yet it can be smaller than the smallest and penetrate everything. It is ubiquitous. It merges into and governs all. It is in charge of the universe, the earth, human beings, all the creatures, and all existences. It penetrates and regulates the entire universe.
Tao is the source of all the scriptures and sutras, as well as the dharmas. It encompasses all the religions, and it is what makes one a Buddha or a saint. And above all, it connects each Individual to their divine self.
This is the true meaning of Tao. We should get to know the Tao and re-discover our own invaluable treasure. To cultivate Tao is to revive one’s own conscience, as well as everyone else’s and to act upon it accordingly. Then all people can be of one spirit, all nations can be in peace like a family, and the Great Harmony will come true. How precious Tao is!
Tao existed before primordial time, before the universe was formed. It is the origin of the world, and it therefore nurtures all creatures and beings. Since Tao is unchangeable and does not evolve with time, it is the ultimate truth. It is what all saints and sages throughout human history have been searching for.
The essence of Tao is the foundation of nature. This law, or power, which existed before the universe was formed, is beyond description because it precedes all civilizations, creatures and languages. Since no name could be applied, we simply call it “Tao.”
After the mutations of the universe, the world was formed. The actions of seasonal changes, rhythms of time and tide, and the balances of the earthly ecosystem were created in harmony. These are the laws of nature. This is also the extension of that original “Tao” when it was substantiated and materialized. The Tao merged into everything that is with and within us.
Now we know Tao is present universally. However, it is difficult to be recognized. There have been prophets and preachers trying to let us know and understand the origin and truth of life through various teachings and literature since the beginning of civilization. They were scattered around the world throughout history. Great commandments were taught to disciples. Goodness and badness were differentiated. These teachings varied, based on differences in culture, background, timing and the level of each individual’s comprehension. However, they all tried to express and transmit the awareness of the Creator to their descendants. Some call it “God”. We call it “Tao.”
As we get to know Tao more and more, we will realize that the essence of Tao and its effect includes everything in existence without exception.
Tao is actually the headwaters of all religions. It embraces the essence of all the preaching and teachings. And yet, it is superior to the system of “belief”. It is nature, the universe itself. “Tao” or “God” represents the highest authority and power of nature. It is also superior to all because it is the unchangeable principle.
Understanding Tao allows us not only to discover the center of all religious belief, but also to communicate with the origin and the highest power of nature. We will then be able to relate ourselves to the truth of the universe.
【To probe further】:
Tao existed before the formation of all, and continues to this day. Therefore Tao is not limited. Everything else created however large or small can be measured and detected. It is only Tao that cannot be measured by immensity, nor detected by existence.
Tao is larger than the largest and leaves nothing excluded. Yet it can be smaller than the smallest and penetrate everything. It is ubiquitous. It merges into and governs all. It is in charge of the universe, the earth, human beings, all the creatures, and all existences. It penetrates and regulates the entire universe.
Tao is the source of all the scriptures and sutras, as well as the dharmas. It encompasses all the religions, and it is what makes one a Buddha or a saint. And above all, it connects each Individual to their divine self.
This is the true meaning of Tao. We should get to know the Tao and re-discover our own invaluable treasure. To cultivate Tao is to revive one’s own conscience, as well as everyone else’s and to act upon it accordingly. Then all people can be of one spirit, all nations can be in peace like a family, and the Great Harmony will come true. How precious Tao is!
Introduction to Tao, Revised Edition (2001)
