#42 The Way of the Taoist: Unity of Yin and Yang
Tao Te Ching, Chapter 42: Understand the meaning of Yin and Yang. Embrace harmony for spiritual awakening and societal cohesion.
Welcome back to The Wisdom of Lao Tzu.
This week, we're delving into Chapter 42 of the Tao Te Ching.
This chapter delves into the fundamental concept of yin and yang, a cornerstone of Taoist philosophy.
From the creation of the universe to spiritual cultivation and social governance, Lao Tzu's teachings continue to offer profound insights into the harmony of existence.
You will also discover how the concept of yin and yang still has its enduring relevance in today's world.
Let’s dive into it.
**42**
道生一，一生二，二生三，三生萬物。
萬物負陰而抱陽，沖氣以為和。
人之所惡，唯孤、寡、不穀，而王公以爲稱。
故物或損之而益，或益之而損。
人之所教，我亦教之。
強梁者不得其死，吾將以爲教父。
Border-crossing: English translations
#1 Lin Yutang’s version
Out of Tao, One is born;
Out of One, Two;
Out of Two, Three;
Out of Three, the created universe.
The created universe carries the yin at its back and the yang in front;
Through the union of the pervading principles it reaches harmony.
To be “orphaned,” “lonely” and “unworthy” is what men hate most.
Yet the princes and dukes call themselves by such names.
For sometimes things are benefited by being taken away from,
And suffer by being added to.
Others have taught this maxim,
Which I shall teach also:
“The violent man shall die a violent death.”
This I shall regard as my spiritual teacher.
#2 Edmund Ryden’s version
The Way generates the Unique;
The Unique generates the Double;
The Double generates the Triplet;
The Triplet generates the myriad things.
The myriad things recline on yin and embrace yang
While vacuous qi holds them in harmony.
What people hate is none other than being an orphan, a widower, or lacking grain,
Yet kings and dukes take these as their titles.
Therefore,
Among things: some are decreased by being increased,
And some are increased by being decreased.
Therefore,
What others teach, I also teach.
Therefore,
A strong pillar does not die a natural death.
I will take this as the father of my teaching.1
#3 D. C. Lau’s version
The way begets one; one begets two; two begets three; three begets the myriad creatures.
The myriad creatures carry on their backs the yin and embrace in their arms the yang and are the blending of the generative forces of the two.
There are no words which men detest more than ‘solitary’, ‘desolate’, and ‘hapless’, yet lords and princes use these to refer to themselves.
Thus a thing is sometimes added to by being diminished and diminished by being added to.
What others teach I also teach. ‘The violent will not come to a natural end.’ I shall take this as my precept.2
Deeper dive
This chapter summarizes the creation process of the universe from the Taoist perspective. As the source of myriad things, Tao is universal to all without having a preference.
Chapter 5 illustrates this principle of the Tao: “Heaven and earth are not benevolent; They treat the myriad things as a straw dog.”
Since heaven and earth all follow the Tao, and the Tao follows that which is natural (see Chapter 25), it follows that Tao is impersonal to all the myriad things in the world by treating them in the same way.
Following the Tao, then, indicates impartiality and disinterest. “The Sage is not benevolent: He treats the common people as a straw dog.”( See more detailed discussion here.)
The universal character of Tao also suggests that humanity is not special, as seen from the perspective of Tao.
Our history records, literature, and philosophical treatises all promote the wishful thinking that humans are unique and intelligent beings (which we are) and can, therefore, appropriate a particular position on the earth.
Yet, the Tao does not favor humanity. Instead, we can only proactively understand and follow the Tao to craft a natural path. Such an understanding leads us to coexist peacefully with other beings in nature.
Moreover, following the Tao also means embracing its liberating spirit (see more discussion here), being brave in self-transformation, and trusting and empowering others to do the same.
In addition, Tao is the unity of the yin and the yang, which means that harmony is essential for creation and existence, and the lack of either element is not the way of a Taoist. As Lao Tzu tells us, “The myriad things recline on yin and embrace yang, While vacuous qi holds them in harmony.”
Spiritual Taoism
Embracing Harmony
The core idea of wu-wei — not to be misled by arbitrary and meddling actions — encourages us to align ourselves with the natural flow of the universe rather than exerting forceful control. It emphasizes the importance of embracing harmony and tolerance rather than clinging to extremes.
In Taoist thought, extremes are viewed as disruptive forces that upset the natural balance of the cosmos. By avoiding extremes and finding a middle path, individuals can achieve inner peace and harmony with the world around them. This means embracing both the light and the dark aspects of existence and acknowledging the interconnectedness of all things.
Moreover, Taoism teaches that true harmony arises from a state of non-contention. Rather than seeking to dominate or destroy others, individuals are encouraged to cultivate compassion, empathy, and understanding. By fostering peaceful coexistence and mutual respect, people can create a harmonious environment where everyone can thrive.
The universal and impartial Tao offers a path for all individuals to access spiritual awakening and liberation, regardless of social status or background. Through the journey of self-discovery and transformation, we can find fulfillment and meaning in life by aligning ourselves with the natural rhythm of the Tao.
Embodying the Yin and Yang
In Taoist philosophy, yin and yang represent the complementary and opposing forces that permeate the universe. The yin embodies darkness, calmness, and receptivity, while the yang represents light, action, and assertiveness. Together, these forces form a dynamic equilibrium that sustains the natural order.
Like the natural world, societies are composed of various elements that embody yin and yang qualities. Social forces such as cooperation, empathy, and compassion align with the yin, while competition, ambition, and assertiveness reflect the yang. Spontaneous societal harmony arises when these contrasting forces are in balance, allowing for mutual adjustment and cooperation.
However, imbalance and overreach disrupt society’s harmony, leading to discord and conflict. When one force seeks to dominate or suppress the other, the delicate equilibrium is disturbed, resulting in instability and disharmony. Taoism warns against the dangers of overreach, emphasizing the importance of humility, flexibility, and adaptability in navigating the complexities of social interaction.
By embracing the principles of yin and yang, societies can cultivate a harmonious dynamic between competing interests and values. Rather than seeking domination or control, we are encouraged to recognize the inherent interconnectedness of all things and work together to achieve collective well-being and prosperity.
Taoism and the political and social order
In the realm of politics and social order, Taoism offers valuable insights into fostering harmony and balance. Taoist philosophy emphasizes the importance of harmonizing interests and promoting coexistence rather than imposing authoritarian control or enforcing rigid ideologies.
When a state or culture adopts authoritarian practices and seeks to enforce conformity through coercion or violence, the state of harmony is breached. This leads to a normalization of domination and suppression, undermining the Tao's liberating spirit of inclusivity and tolerance.
Taoism teaches that true sociopolitical harmony arises from a state of balance and mutual respect. Leaders are encouraged to govern with wisdom and compassion, considering the needs and interests of all members of society. By fostering an environment of openness and dialogue, a harmonious social order where diversity is practiced and people’s natural paths of self-transformation are respected can be cultivated.
Moreover, Taoism warns against overreach and excessive ambition in governance. Just as the human body becomes unwell when its yin and yang energies are imbalanced, a society runs into troubles when the political establishment overextends its authority or pursues agendas that disregard the well-being of the people.
To summarize, Taoism offers a profound philosophy of harmony that can guide individuals and societies in navigating the complexities of existence. By embracing the principles of yin and yang and harmonization, people can cultivate inner peace, social cohesion, and collective well-being, ultimately leading to a more harmonious and prosperous world for all.
Thanks for reading!
Wishing you peace and freedom,
Yuxuan
Daodejing, trans. Edmund Ryden. (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2008), 89.
Tao Te Ching, trans. D. C. Lau. (London: Penguin Classics, 1963), 49.