Over the past decade of studying different ancient medicine traditions, I’ve been amazed at how many similarities exist between them. Whether we’re talking about Amazonian Shamanism, Ayurvedic medicine, or the ancient healing traditions of China, the principles that these schools of knowledge are built on share many commonalities – which is probably why many are beginning to incorporate a combination of these sacred wellness systems into their lives.
As part of a future production, my team and I are currently cataloging a number of these ancient teachings from around the world and would love to share some of our favorites with you. Particularly the passages that seem to span numerous spiritual disciplines.
There are so many brilliant works to choose from, but this week we’re going to look at a few excerpts from the Tao Te Ching. This ancient book, written by Lao Tzu (which translates literally to “Old Master” in Chinese) is among the most revered sacred texts that still exist today. The only work that has been translated more times than the Tao Te Ching is the Bible. Its pages have shaped entire religions like Taoism, Chinese Buddhism, and Confucianism and have inspired some of the greatest artists and poets of our time.
The Tao Te Ching translates to “The Way”.
Tao Te Ching – Lao Tzu – Verse 44
“Fame or self?
Which matters more?
Self or wealth?
Which is more precious?
Gain or loss?
Which is more painful?
He who is attached to things will suffer much.
He who saves will suffer heavy loss.
He who knows when to stop,
does not find himself in trouble.
He will stay forever safe.”
Tao Te Ching – Lao Tzu – Verse 8
“The supreme good is like water,
which nourishes all things without trying to.
It flows to low places loathed by all men.
Therefore, it is like the Tao.
Live in accordance with the nature of things.
In dwelling, be close to the land.
In meditation, go deep in the heart.
In dealing with others, be gentle and kind.
In speech, be true.
In ruling be just.
In action, watch the timing
No fight: No blame
One who lives in accordance with nature
does not go against the way of things.
He moves in harmony with the present moment,
always knowing the truth of just what to do.”
Tao Te Ching – Lao Tzu – Verse 11
“We mold clay into a pot,
but it is the emptiness inside
that makes the vessel useful.”
Tao Te Ching – Lao Tzu – Verse 1
“The Tao that can be told
is not the eternal Tao.
The name that can be named
is not the eternal Name.”
I hope you enjoy these bits of wisdom as much as we do!
Stay curious,
Nick Polizzi
18 Responses
familiar with all these writings…beautiful……glad you are sharing….xoxoxoxo
Great & calming, gently reminding me to slow s l o w down…
Thanks!
Tao Te Ching!!!!!!
great ,superior poetry-philosophy!!!!
Thanks!
Loved these! Great reminders . . . thanks for sharing them
Thank You for sharing and letting it all be.
Very beautiful! Thank you. Ageless wisdom which will never go out of date!
Blessings.
xxxxxx
Wonderful article, Nick. Thanks so much for bringing these wisdoms closer to us. Helps us realize that the simple lessons are everlasting. Always have been.
Many Blessings,
Mercy
Yes, sounds absolutely familiar and worthy quoting on and on..Thank you for your interest and sharing. Jewels,jewels…
Thank your for sharing this ancient wisdom. I have also found the “I Ching” an interesting tool. A modern version “Streetcorner Ching”, written by a friend with great experience with it seems to have captured and translated the essence well.
Thank you for these inspirational words. I am interested in learning more about these natural healing techniques.
Thanks Nick for sharing the wisdom. I always injoy the blogs from TST. I AM delightfully curious and grateful for our connection. 😉
Thank you for sharing these wise and inspirational information. I always enjoy, learn and benefit from your posts.
Thank you for sharing these words of wisdom. They touch the deepest part of my knowingness.
Nick may all the adamantine particles of love surround you and go into your food and heal every part of your body and life and everyone that sits at this table. Amen. Enjoy!
The Gifts from the “Sacred Science” series are profound and true Gifts for us all.
and even more “pearls” from Taoism, which bear incredible wisdom for these times on our planet,
and my 2 personal favorites as I complete my 71st year of life:
1. Nature never hurries, yet everything is accomplished.
2. Every journey is begun and completed one step at a time.
I really want to know more about ancient healing in Africa. I am also interested in other ancient healing methodologies
Very grateful to you, feel blessed to found this beautiful sacred website.
Many many blessings
Thank you Nick, much needed words.
I love the verses, especially 8 and 11.
Hard to stay afloat in a world of whips and constant judgement, bringing you to your knees.
To be free, is my hope. To belong and participate in the natural existence , conscious and preservation all round amongst other kindred spirits: Beings that we are here and Now.