Bahá’í Explorations

This excerpt from Lao-tsu’s Taoist teachings beautifully encapsulates the essence of the Tao as an eternal source of wisdom that transcends intellectual understanding. It suggests that true comprehension of the Tao goes beyond mere cognitive processes, encouraging a release from rigid doctrines and intellectual constraints. The imagery of blunting the intellect’s edges, untangling mental knots, softening thought’s glare, and settling the dust of thought conveys a sense of peace and clarity that comes from aligning with the natural order of the universe. This passage invites us to embrace a more intuitive and harmonious approach to life, where wisdom flows effortlessly and understanding emerges from a deeper connection with the world around us.

Lord, let us empty of all doctrines, The Tao is wisdom eternally inexhaustible. Fathomless for the mere intellect, The Tao is the law wherewith all things come into being.

It blunts the edges of the intellect, Untangles the knots of the mind, Softens the glare of thinking, And settles the dust of thought.


Lao-tsu, Taoist Prayers, 29-30
https://oceanlibrary.com/link/xNDNf/taoist-prayers/

Let your vision be world-embracing…” — Bahá’u’lláh