Master Lao Tzu’s 4 Cardinal Rules For Spiritual Living

Lao Tzu or Laozi, literally translated as ‘old master’ was an ancient Chinese philosopher and writer who is credited with writing the Tao Te Ching, and founding Taoism. So revered is Lao Tzu that he is considered a god in religious Taoism and traditional Chinese religions.

The old master’s teaching are world renowned, studied and practiced by millions. He spoke of four cardinal values that when embraced would reveal the truth of the universe. Practicing these teachings can open you up to higher wisdom and increased happiness – a place of balance and peace.

The four cardinal values are found in the Tao Te Ching, which is among the most translated works in world literature. It contains 81 powerful poetic verses which exude wisdom and mystery in equal measure.

Join us as we peruse the four cardinal values of Lao Tzu’s Tao Te Ching.

Master Lao Tzu’s 4 Cardinal Rules For Spiritual Living

1. Reverence for All Life

“Living in the moment brings you a sense of reverence for all of life’s blessings.” – Lao Tzu 

The appreciation of all creation, all living things, great and small. Lao Tzu believed respecting all forms of life was an essential part of living in harmony with the universe. Love is freedom.

2. Sincerity in All Forms

“When pure sincerity forms within, it is outwardly realized in other people’s hearts.” – Lao Tzu

How can we live in harmony without sincerity? without true authenticity. Being swayed by others opinions or outside influence pulls us away from who we truly are and results in a loss of inner balance. Stay true to yourself. Only by accepting ourselves can we find true peace within.

3. Gentleness

“Kindness in words creates confidence, kindness in thinking creates profoundness, kindness in giving creates love.” – Lao Tzu

Be gentle with thought, feeling, word and action. Being gentle means giving up the need to be right. Being gentle and kind is more important for our inner balance than being seen as correct or asserting our beliefs or ideas onto someone. Practising gentleness will eradicate any form of negative ego.

4. Supportiveness

“Be supportive. Let go of the ego.” – Lao Tzu

Just like the other cardinal values, supportiveness applies to everything and everyone, including ourselves.. When we help ourselves attain harmony, it will enable us to help others more. Be happy to give without expecting anything in return. Service to others is truly a great virtue.

“When you succeed in connecting your energy with the divine realm through high awareness and the practice of undiscriminating virtue, the transmission of the ultimate subtle truths will follow.” – Lao Tzu