『老子』에서 謙讓 읽기

Abstract

『Lao-zi』is equivalent to the Bible in Taoism. This book describes chaotic circumstances during the Spring and Autumn Period. The themes in the book can be understood in various manners depending on difference of perspective such as Non-action, No Desire, Selfless, Emptiness, Simple and Unadorned, Frugal, Loving,Kenosis, Weak, Feminine, Infant, Indisputable and Private as Selfless. This paper has been written based on the perspective that 『Lao-zi』was released as one solution to get over the chaos of the Spring and Autumn Period. Based on this point of view,this paper has chosen ‘modesty’ as the topic of 『Lao-zi』. Modesty could be the most effective means to overcome the chaotic era which was created by selfishness and competition. The modesty in 『Lao-zi』can be divided into three stages. First,it is a posture stage. Specifically, it is a stage of eliminating selfish mind, which is a prerequisite to practice modesty. For example, Non-action, No Desire, Selfless,Emptiness, Simple and Unadorned, Frugal and Loving are associated with this stage. Second, it is a stage regarding the relationship with others. Specifically, we lower ourselves before others, which is the basic step of modesty. For example, Kenosis,Weak, Feminine and Infant are included in this stage. Third, it is a stage of social utility. In other words, we develop and grow together with others. Indisputable and Private as Selfless are included in this stage. After all, it is modesty to remove selfish mind, lower ourselves to others and finally develop together with others. Modesty in 『Lao-zi』is prescription on individualism which was widespread during the Spring and Autumn Period. Therefore, modesty could be one solution to build an ideal society in which all people live in perfect harmony.