It is the Way of Heaven to show no favoritism. It is forever on the side of the good man.
Tao Te Ching
The Way of Heaven
Topic: Divine Love & Goodness
“It is the Way of Heaven to show no favoritism. It is forever on the side of the good man.”
Inspiring Journey of a Great Soul: Early Life, Teachings, and Death
Early Life
Niels Bohr was born on October 7, 1885, in Copenhagen, Denmark, into a family that fostered a strong academic environment. His father, Christian Bohr, was a respected physiology professor, while his mother, Ellen Adler Bohr, came from a well-educated Jewish family. This nurturing atmosphere ignited young Niels’s passion for learning, particularly in the fields of physics and mathematics. He excelled in his studies, earning his doctorate in 1911 from the University of Copenhagen, where he began to lay the groundwork for his groundbreaking contributions to quantum theory. Bohr’s early experiences and the intellectual climate of his upbringing would profoundly influence his revolutionary ideas about atomic structure and the behavior of electrons.
Teachings
Niels Bohr is best remembered for his pioneering work in quantum mechanics, particularly the Bohr model of the atom, which introduced the revolutionary concept that electrons orbit the nucleus at specific distances, or energy levels. His teaching extended beyond formal education; he was a mentor to many young physicists and championed the idea of open dialogue in scientific inquiry, famously coining the phrase “A physicist is just as good as his ability to ask the right questions.” Bohr’s philosophical insights into the interplay between classical and quantum physics have inspired countless scholars to explore the mysteries of the universe. His belief in the importance of cooperation among scientists, particularly evident in the establishment of the Niels Bohr Institute, fostered a collaborative spirit that continues to resonate in scientific communities worldwide.
Death
Niels Bohr passed away on November 18, 1962, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire generations of scientists. His contributions to the understanding of atomic theory and quantum mechanics not only transformed the field of physics but also had profound implications across various disciplines, including chemistry and philosophy. Bohr’s commitment to peace and democracy during turbulent times, particularly in the wake of World War II, underscored his belief that science should serve humanity. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded of the power of curiosity and collaboration in the pursuit of knowledge and the profound impact that one dedicated individual can have on the world. Niels Bohr’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration, inviting us all to explore the depths of our own intellectual potential.
Tao Te Ching
Wilson, Andrew, editor. World Scripture--a Comparative Anthology of Sacred Texts. Paragon House, 1991, p. 89 [Tao Te Ching 79].
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Favoritism
By ‘favoritism’ is meant the perquisites the world gives to the rich and powerful.
Tao Te Ching 79
The Purpose of the Center Tao Commentaries by Carl Abbott:
The commentaries here are not intended to explain what the Tao Te Ching ‘truly’ says. Rather, the commentary portrays the Tao Te Ching as seen though ‘my’ and ‘your’ mind. This offers us a conversation, of sorts—an interaction between ‘my’ understanding or puzzlement and ‘your’ understanding or puzzlement. We find this back and forth interpretive sharing very helpful in getting to see more of the whole elephant.
A good example of favoritism is nepotism. The exchanging of favor isn’t based in merit, but in need—desire. It seems much of human interaction stems from this. We are only upset by it when such favoritism is not going our way.
Favoritism serves as an important glue of social interactions—tribalism. I find that as I leave tribal affiliations behind, I’m more able to know and become one with the way of heaven. It is like leaving a smaller club to join a larger, cosmic one. I give up some emotional intimacy for deeper spiritual connection.
Favoritism comes from wanting to ‘stack the deck’ in a particular direction. The way of heaven is omni-directional—it owns the deck, it is the deck.
Forever on the side of the good man brings to mind the Christian concept ‘as you sow, so shall you reap’. Heaven is neutral and simply upholds the law of consequences. If I live a destructive life I’m more likely to be destroyed; it’s nothing personal from heaven’s point of view. It’s just carrying on the business of the universe.
Isn’t paying attention the foundation of the good man. When I’m not watchful, I suffer natural consequences; have accidents, eat too much pizza, put my foot in my mouth, and so on… When I’m aware, life goes pretty smoothly—the way of heaven is on my side. The same goes for us all. For example, when the mouse is alert, it escapes the cat. When the mouse’s attention lapses, the cat eats, as long as it’s paying attention and times its attack well.
How I approach life determines what I get out of it. It’s not what I do, it’s how I do it, that decides how good I feel. This reminds me of a quote from Blake: ‘If you would do good, you must do it in minute particulars’.
Good deeds are a natural out flow of a good inner world. Likewise, evil action reflects inner chaos. When I’m in a bad mood, I tend to act badly—and visa versa. The bad deeds that we seek to exact punishment for are in truth only symptoms of a punishing inner world. This is so obvious, and yet we so easily clamor for exaction. This, likewise, must be a result of our own inner misery.
This parallels Christ’s teaching: ‘judge not least thee be judged’. More to the point, it seems that when I judge, I’m in the same position as the one I’m judging; I can’t judge without being a hypocrite!
–[Center Tao Website (See Attribution and Resources)]