Simplicity
The topic of simplicity is integral to the messages of both Lao Tzu and Jesus. Both sages deeply mistrusted the learned elites of their times ~ the Confucian mandarins and the Pharisees, respectively ~ who engineered complex institutions and conventions to control society.
Lao Tzu and Jesus vilified people who used their intellectual talents for exploitation and social advantage, and in contrast extolled the pure of heart and simple of the soul. Jesus condemned the learned men of his time as "blind guides," and both he and Lao Tzu instead praised the innocence of a child's unspoiled nature as a far better model to emulate. Both masters enumerated the rewards of pursuing a quiet life of inner contemplation ~ drawing on the ineffable Source that gives lasting joy and spiritual sustenance. They also both advocated a life of peace and wholeness in which people would enjoy the simple pleasures and virtues of living harmoniously with each other.
The topic of simplicity is integral to the messages of both Lao Tzu and Jesus. Both sages deeply mistrusted the learned elites of their times ~ the Confucian mandarins and the Pharisees, respectively ~ who engineered complex institutions and conventions to control society.
Lao Tzu and Jesus vilified people who used their intellectual talents for exploitation and social advantage, and in contrast extolled the pure of heart and simple of the soul. Jesus condemned the learned men of his time as "blind guides," and both he and Lao Tzu instead praised the innocence of a child's unspoiled nature as a far better model to emulate. Both masters enumerated the rewards of pursuing a quiet life of inner contemplation ~ drawing on the ineffable Source that gives lasting joy and spiritual sustenance. They also both advocated a life of peace and wholeness in which people would enjoy the simple pleasures and virtues of living harmoniously with each other.
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