The Rule of Lao Tzu – Osho Story and Explanation

https://spiritualgrowthevents.com/free-ebook-unlocking-the-power-of-meditation-craig-hamilton/Lao Tzu became very famous, a wise man, and he was without doubt one of the wisest men ever. The emperor of China asked him very humbly to become his chief of the supreme court, because nobody could guide the country's laws better than he could. He tried to persuade the emperor, “I am not the right man,” but the emperor was insistent.

Lao Tzu said, “If you don't listen to me… just one day in the court and you will be convinced that I am not the right man, because the system is wrong. Out of humbleness I was not saying the truth to you. Either I can exist or your law and order and your society can exist. So… let us try it.”

The first day a thief who had stolen almost half the treasures of the richest man in the capital was brought into the court. Lao Tzu listened to the case and then he said that the thief and the richest man should both go to jail for six months.

The rich man said, “What are you saying? I have been stolen from, I have been robbed — what kind of justice is this, that you are sending me to jail for the same amount of time as the thief?”

Lao Tzu said, “I am certainly being unfair to the thief. Your need to be in jail is greater, because you have collected so much money to yourself, deprived so many people of money… thousands of people are downtrodden and you are collecting and collecting money. For what? Your very greed is creating these thieves. You are responsible.

The first crime is yours.”

From Awareness: The Courage to Be Yourself by Osho.

What Is the Spiritual Moral / Meaning of Osho's “The Rule of Lao Tzu” Parable?

The tale of Lao Tzu and the emperor beckons us to ponder the nature of justice and responsibility. Lao Tzu's unconventional judgment challenges the conventional notions of right and wrong, delving deep into the roots of societal ills. It urges us to reassess our roles in the creation of circumstances, reminding us that often, true justice demands accountability beyond surface-level judgments. It invites us to contemplate our individual responsibility in shaping the world around us, highlighting the interconnectedness of our actions and their repercussions on society.

The story unfolds a profound lesson on the essence of humility and self-awareness. Lao Tzu's refusal to take on a role that clashed with his principles reflects the power of staying aligned with one's inner truth. It embodies the strength in humility, showcasing that true wisdom isn't found in the pursuit of power or accolades but in the unwavering commitment to one's values. This steadfastness in honoring one's convictions guides us toward a deeper understanding of authenticity and integrity in our lives, urging us to stay true to our inner compass despite external pressures.

The narrative echoes the notion of interconnectedness and collective responsibility. Lao Tzu's verdict transcends the boundaries of individual acts, illuminating the interwoven fabric of society. It draws attention to the intricate web of causality, highlighting that every action carries ripple effects, impacting the collective consciousness. It implores us to acknowledge our roles not just as individuals but as integral parts of a larger societal tapestry, urging us to act with mindfulness and compassion, recognizing the far-reaching consequences of our choices.

At its core, the story offers a profound reflection on the intricacies of justice and empathy. Lao Tzu's judgment challenges the prevalent binary perception of right and wrong, urging us to embrace a more nuanced understanding of justice. It calls for empathy toward both the victim and the perpetrator, delving into the depths of human experience to comprehend the underlying causes rather than merely addressing the surface manifestations of wrongdoing. This deeper empathy invites us to approach conflicts with a compassionate heart, seeking holistic resolutions that address the root causes of discord rather than perpetuating cycles of retribution.

Ultimately, this story serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of wisdom and discernment. Lao Tzu's wisdom isn't confined to conventional norms; it transcends the boundaries of societal constructs, inviting us to navigate life with a broader perspective. It encourages us to embrace wisdom not as a rigid set of rules but as a fluid, compassionate guide in navigating the complexities of existence. It inspires us to seek deeper truths, fostering a consciousness that transcends the limitations of conventional judgment and embraces the wisdom of interconnectedness and empathy.

In essence, the story of Lao Tzu and the emperor unveils layers of profound spiritual teachings, inviting us to contemplate the deeper meanings of justice, responsibility, humility, interconnectedness, empathy, and wisdom. It presents an invitation to reassess our perceptions and actions, encouraging us to embrace a more expansive understanding of the intricate dance between individual actions and the collective consciousness.