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Definition:
The Taoist term wu literally means "non-being," but it does not denote
non-existence. Instead, it describes the absence of qualities which humans can
perceive through their senses. This is a very important concept because the Tao
itself is regarded as possessing wu - it has no perceivable
characteristics, but that certainly does not mean that it does not exist or that
it has no effects. The Tao Te Ching describes it thus:
Shape clay into a pot: it is the space in the hollow that makes it useful; open doors and windows for a room: it is the opening which illuminates and gives access.
Taoists believe that the emptiness which characterizes the Tao is also one of the fundamental truths of the cosmos. Understanding wu is an important part of understanding the Tao.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: Dao
Common Misspellings: none
Related Resources:
What is Theism?
What is the difference between monotheism and monolatry? Between pantheism and panentheism? How about between animism and shamanism? Or theism and deism? What the heck is henotheism? For that matter, what is and is not a religion?What is Religion?
A system of human beliefs, ideals and practices which is harder to define than it may at first appear.
