"The relation of the Dao to all the world is like that of the great rivers and seas to the streams from the valleys." - Laozi, Dao de Jing

What Daoist idea is represented in this quotation?

3 answers

The Daoist idea represented in this quotation is the concept of interconnectedness or unity. The quote suggests that the Dao (the fundamental force or principle in Daoism) is related to the entire world in a manner similar to how the great rivers and seas are connected to the streams from the valleys. It illustrates the idea that everything in the world is interconnected and part of a larger whole.
"The relation of the Dao to all the world is like that of the great rivers and seas to the streams from the valleys." - Laozi, Dao de Jing
What Daoist idea is represented in this quotation?
People should perform rituals to honor their ancestors.
The yin and yang do not always work together
children must always respect their parents
there is evidence of the Dao in natural things
The Daoist idea represented in this quotation is that there is evidence of the Dao in natural things. The quote describes how the Dao is related to the world, using the analogy of great rivers and seas being connected to streams from the valleys. This suggests that just as the rivers and seas are essential for the existence and nourishment of the smaller streams, the Dao is essential for the functioning and harmony of the world. It implies that the Dao can be observed and understood through the natural world and its processes.