Taoism > The Basics
What is Emptiness (Wu)
One of the most important concepts in Taoism is Wu, usually translated as "emptiness". Though the meaning of this term is "nonbeing", "non-existence", referring to the original shape of the uncreated universe, we may also translate it as emptiness:
- The emptiness opposed to the fullness (you);
The wheel is one of Lao-tzu's preferred symbols to render the meaning of (Wu) emptiness |
- The void (non-existance) which is the mother or root of everything in the universe (aka the "ten-thousand");
- In the realm of humans, the state without desire that helps one to contemplate the
Emptiness in Tao-te ching
In
Tao-te ching the emptiness is compares with the usage of a wheel, a vessel or an apartment.The usage of the wheel depends on the empty space (emptiness) of the axle.
The same, the vessel's usage depends on the empty space inside and the apartment may be used only through the empty space within.
Emptiness as personal practice
In short it is about the realization of a total extinction of mind continuous agitation, meaning thoughts and feeling at well.
In fact, feelings are translated into thought, thus leading to a state of discomfort and permanent want to acting.
The state of emptiness is the opposite of the agitation and inattention characteristic of the average human mind.
The advantage of emptying the mind? Health - mental and physical - longevity and especially the understanding of the mechanisms of the world in its essence which is decline and destruction.
About emptiness as a personal practice we send to the Taoist meditation methods. It is the same Taoism taught by Lao-tzu himself in his book.
We treat about these methods in our online courses on
Taoist meditation and the the Tao Practice in the Day to Day Life.The second show you how to apply the Taoist teachings.
Further resources:
We published a paper on emptiness in our paperstore here.
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