# What Return to Origins and Stillness means in Tao Te Ching

> A major theme is the cyclical return to one's root or original state, characterized by stillness and vacancy, which is seen as the path to enduring life, wisdom, and alignment with the Tao.

## Explanation

A major theme is the cyclical return to one's root or original state, characterized by stillness and vacancy, which is seen as the path to enduring life, wisdom, and alignment with the Tao.

The preface touches on the cultivation of the Tao as a rule of life favorable to longevity, reflecting a return to original simplicity.

The chapter describes an early paradisiacal state where the Tao was realized, and people lived in happy innocence without awareness of rulers.

The advice to withdraw into obscurity after work is done reflects a return to stillness and the natural way.

The Tao 'returns and becomes nothing,' emphasizing a return to the formless origin.

## Links

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- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tao_te_ching_se
- All concepts: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tao_te_ching_se/concepts