Daodejing Chapter Analysis

1. The central theme of this reading is:

(Paraphrase as accurately as possible, but be sure also to indicate which chapters from the _Daodejing_ the ideas are coming from. Be sure to explain also why you see this as the central theme of the reading.)

The central theme of this reading is the harmony of the universe with the Dao, in which opposites (yin and yang, heaven and earth, etc.), coexist together in order for the Way to be followed. Chapter one of the text begins by mentioning two different terms- "these two come forth in unity but diverge in name, their unity is known as an enigma." Already, a comparison is recognized in order to show how they work to a form a better union together. People may see two different ideas to be followed separately, but based on the text, but their combination is more advantageous to the Way. …show more content…
Yin and yang are a pairing to emphasize this idea of peace and harmony that the Daodejing promotes. "The myriad creatures shoulder yin and embrace yang, and by blending these qi "vital energies," they attain harmony." (Ch.42) Harmony appears to be the main goal to the way of the Dao and understanding the existence of the