Taoism is a philosophy and religious tradition that emerged in ancient China, which places a great deal of emphasis on living in harmony with the Tao. This pursuit of alignment extends to our understanding of good and evil. In Saam Law Tao, the Taoist tradition I am about to explain, the definition of good and evil is distinctly outlined in the Saam Law Truth Scripture.

Before we proceed, let me make clear that the definitions of good and evil in this context apply solely to disciples of Saam Law Tao. Much like how the tenets of Christianity apply to Christians, these definitions are specific to practitioners of this Taoist lineage.

Good and Evil: A Matter of Alignment

In the Saam Law Truth Scripture, good and evil are not subjective, but hinge on alignment with the Tao. An action, speech, or mindset is considered good if it aligns with what the Tao prefers, contributing to the happiness of the Tao. Conversely, if it displeases the Tao, leading to its unhappiness, it is considered evil.

Good and Evil: An Analogy

To make this concept easier to understand, imagine working for Apple Inc. Anything you do that benefits the company, making it happy, is considered good. Actions that cause the company to suffer or lose, leading to unhappy moments, are considered evil. Similarly, if you assist Microsoft, Apple’s competitor, you’re not making Apple happy. However, should you counteract Microsoft with your innovative ideas, you would make Apple proud. This good deed is relative to you being a part of Apple’s team.

The same principle applies to a disciple of the Tin Yat Lineage in Saam Law Tao. Your actions should aim to make your lineage happy, represented by your masters or peers studying the same lineage. Therefore, the definitions of good and evil are determined by your position and the role you occupy within this system.

Good and Evil: An Example

Let’s say you have recently been ordained as a Saam Law Taoist. You then post a photo of yourself wearing a Buddhist outfit. Would that be good or bad? According to the Saam Law Truth Scripture, it would be deemed as an evil action because it wouldn’t make the people in your lineage, including your master, happy, and would not make the Tao proud.

Recognizing and Avoiding Evil Actions

It is crucial for disciples to understand that it is quite easy to engage in evil actions unknowingly. By being more observant of your masters and peers, by caring more about their feelings, and by not being self-centered, you can quickly identify potential missteps and avoid them.

The Saam Law Truth scripture emphasizes the importance of channeling more energy of alignment into oneself. Doing so aids in eradicating these evil elements from your life. This approach brings you closer to the Tao, thereby improving your practice as a Taoist, and allowing you to harvest more fruitful results.

Conclusion

Taoism is about harmony and alignment with the universe. Understanding this allows disciples of the Saam Law Tao to properly discern good from evil and better align themselves with the Tao. Following these principles not only benefits the individual disciple but also strengthens the lineage, reflecting a universal principle that is found in many spiritual and religious traditions around the world. The journey to self-improvement and spiritual growth in Saam Law Tao thus centers on continuously learning and aligning one’s actions, speech, and mindset with the Tao.

Achieving this alignment takes time, patience, and dedication. For those who are inspired to delve deeper into Saam Law Tao, acquiring a copy of the Saam Law Truth Scripture and becoming ordained to start learning are valuable first steps towards understanding and practicing this ancient philosophy. With time, commitment, and the right guidance, you will begin to embody the teachings of Taoism, leading to a life that is harmonious and aligned with the Tao.