#以书之名#
When we mention the old saying "Heaven and earth are unkind, and all things are dogs", many people's first reaction may be to think of the cold and ruthless heaven and earth, and all things that are regarded as small as dogs. However, the meaning behind this famous sentence from the Tao Te Ching is far from being so simple and literal. Today, the editor will talk to you about the true connotation of this sentence and see what kind of cultural code and philosophical thinking is behind "Gougou"?
To understand the meaning of "dog", we must first understand what "dog" and "dog" represent. In ancient China, "刍" refers to a dog made of grass used in sacrifices, and "dog" is a common sacrificial item in ancient times. In rituals, these dogs are used as sacrifices in place of real animals, representing a kind of devotion and reverence for the gods of heaven and earth. Thus, the word "dog" does not refer to a real dog, but rather a symbol that represents a sacrifice that was used as a sacrifice.
Next, let's take a look at the part of "Heaven and Earth Are Unkind". In the Tao Te Ching, "benevolence" usually refers to preference or special care. The reason why heaven and earth are called "unkind" is not because they are ruthless, but because they treat all things equally, without preference or special treatment. In other words, heaven and earth will not give more favors to a creature just because it is a higher species, nor will it be stingy with a creature just because it is a lower species. They operate according to the laws of nature, in which everything grows, multiplies, and dies, without exception.
Then, to understand "heaven and earth are unkind" and "treat all things as dogs" together means that heaven and earth treat all things like sacrificial dogs, without preference or special treatment. All things between heaven and earth, just like dogs in sacrifices, operate according to the laws of nature, without exception. This understanding breaks people's conventional thinking patterns and allows us to re-examine the relationship between heaven and earth and all things.
This kind of philosophical reflection also has far-reaching implications for modern society. In modern society, human beings often treat other creatures and the environment in nature unfairly because of their own subjective consciousness and prejudices. We overexploit resources, destroy the environment, and even see other organisms as tools to satisfy our own desires. However, "Heaven and earth are unkind, and all things are dogs" tells us that we should abandon this prejudice and selfishness, and treat everything in nature with more equality and respect.
We should be aware that both human beings and other living beings are part of nature and should follow the laws of nature. We should respect the right of other living beings to live, protect the ecological environment, and realize the harmonious coexistence of man and nature. Only in this way can we truly understand and practice the philosophical idea of "heaven and earth are unkind, and all things are used as dogs".
"Heaven and earth are unkind, and all things are used as dogs" is not a simple description of the ruthlessness of heaven and earth, but a profound philosophical reflection. It reminds us to abandon prejudice and selfishness and to treat everything in nature with more equality and respect. Only in this way can we truly realize the harmonious coexistence of man and nature and create a better future together.