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", "nonexistence", 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 (nonexistance) 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 Tao (see the Tao-te ching, chapter 1 final).
   
• The open mind without discrimination preached, for example, by Master Hui Neng in his Sutra.

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

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.

Read also:

• Tao
   
• Te
   
• Wu-Wei (nondoing)
   
• Fu (return)
   
• Yin-Yang

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