What is the Wuwei in Taosim? 无为

Wuwei (无为), originating from Laozi, who stated in Tao Te Ching: "Therefore, the sage engages in wuwei (non-action) in his affairs and practices teaching without words... He makes the wise dare not act. By acting with wuwei, there is nothing that cannot be governed." Early Taoism regarded wuwei as the foundation for attaining the essence of Dao, gaining the will of heaven, and achieving peace.

Huainanzi·Yuandao (《淮南子・原道》) says: "What is called wuwei is not taking action before things [naturally] unfold; what is called 'there is nothing that cannot be done' is acting in accordance with the inherent tendencies of things." After the Wei and Jin dynasties, "wuwei" gradually became the basis of Taoism's social outlook. He Shanggong's Commentary on Laozi (《老子注》) claims: "Following Dao's wuwei benefits the spirit in governing the body and benefits all people in governing the state."

The "wuwei" related to "governing the body" should be such that "one does not act as a master of affairs, nor as a teacher of affairs; one is as silent as if there were no one around, reaching the state of wuwei." Only in this way, as Yunji Qiqian (《云笈七签》) suggests, can one purify the entire body, avoid danger, and stay away from blame. The "wuwei" related to "governing the state" should involve ruling the world in accordance with the laws of nature and social development, so that the common people can benefit.

Then, how can one achieve wuwei? Yunji Qiqian points out: "If you desire to attain wuwei, you must first avoid harm. How? Keep away from suspicion, keep away from petty people, keep away from improper gains, and be cautious in your movements; be careful with what you eat and drink, be careful with sharp words, be careful in noisy places, and be careful in physical fights. Always reflect on your mistakes, correct them, and follow goodness. Moreover, you should understand astronomy, geography, human affairs, spirits, timing, and numerology. In this way, you will achieve the same merits as the sages and share the same virtue as heaven."

It is evident that Taoism's "wuwei" is not passive withdrawal from the world, nor is it doing nothing at all. Instead, it requires diligent learning, proactive progress, a thorough understanding of the laws of nature and society, and skill in handling interpersonal relationships. One should act in accordance with "Dao," establish one's life in the world, and must abandon reckless actions, keep away from misfortune through prudence, and pursue the realm of simplicity, frugality, tranquility, and few desires.