In Taoism, the way or path {tao, Taoism} is the mystical underlying principle of all things. It is transcendent, as ultimate reality. It is immanent as universe itself. It is the order in people's lives, as serenity and grace. It emphasizes simple living with no desires, much contemplation, and few activities. Spontaneity, naturalness, and openness have value. In Esoteric Taoism, tao is psychic power of societal links and so relates to mysticism. In popular Taoism, tao relates to magic. Many secret societies in China are Taoist.
Creative quietude {wu wei} is yielding to tao.
Male {yin, Taoism} and female {yang, Taoism}, philosopher and king, Heaven and Earth, or creating and destroying forces exist in necessary pairs {yin-yang, Taoism} {yang and yin} {yin and yang}. Yang is unbroken lines, and yin is broken lines. They must have balance. Yang and yin cause movement, cycles, and opposites. Nothing can be permanent or dominant for long. Because all values are relative, even contrary things share identity.
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Date Modified: 2022.0225