An Application of the Concept of Water in Taoism for Daily Life

Abstract

This article introduces the concept of water in Lao Tzu's Taoism. Lao Tzu uses nature's representative water as the center of thought to present ideas and practices in Taoism. The superior man lives a simple life, humble, not contradicting natural laws or Tao, like water that benefits all things, but does not compete with them while it is in the lowest place. In this article, two points are presented: the concept of water in Taoism and the teachings of Taoism related to the concept of water. And finally, the article was concluded by three principles to apply the concept of water in the Taoism in life: 1) The inner practice is the precious doctrines, namely, benevolence, parsimony, and humility, and three other sub-principles: self-understanding, self-win and solitude; 2) The principle of treating others is to please and sympathize them and be unselfish; and 3) The ruler's main concept is humility towards the people.