What is the Qingjing 清净？

Qingjing (清净), a method of practice and an attitude toward life in Taoist doctrines. Taoism holds that qingjing is the foundation of Dao; when all things are in a state of qingjing, "Dao will naturally come to reside [within them]." Laozi also emphasizes qingjing, stating that "Qingjing is the rectitude of the world" and "I value stillness, and the people will naturally become upright."

The concept of qingjing in Taoism refers to "sincerely focusing one's thoughts on pursuing Dao." One should learn to understand qingjing and model oneself after heaven and earth. In Taoism, "qingjing" and "wuwei (无为，non-action)" are similar concepts, both meaning "having a pure heart with few desires, practicing non-action, and maintaining tranquility."

"Qingjing" is the opposite of "zhuodong (浊动，turbidity and movement)." Yunji Qiqian·Tai Shang Lao Jun Qing Jing Xin Jing (《云笈七签・太上老君清净心经》) states: "Dao is both pure and turbid, both still and moving; qingjing is the root, while turbidity and movement are the branches." This idea is further extended to society, holding that if people can attain qingjing, "the six desires will not arise, and the three poisons will be eliminated."