Investigative mythologist William Henry discussed his latest work on Light Beings-- which he described as ancient enlightened ones Investigative mythologist William Henry discussed his latest work on Light Beings-- which he described as ancient enlightened ones who came to Earth and left a spark of themselves inside us. The Light Body is the name given to our hidden spiritual body and is referenced in many sacred traditions, he explained. The Mayans prophesized that enlightened beings would emerge from a serpent rope (possibly a stargate or wormhole) from the center of our galaxy in 2012, and Egyptian traditions also speak of beings of light, he noted.
Henry's investigation in Abydos, Egypt uncovered depictions of the 'Osiris Device,' which he described as a kind of a energy tower that could also serve as a teleporter for light beings.
Upcoming experiments at CERN with the Large Hadron Collider seek to recreate the conditions just after the Big Bang. Is humankind on the verge of discovering the primordial secrets of God-- seeing the light of first creation?, Henry pondered. Ultimately, humans have the ability to transform themselves through consciousness into light beings, he asserted.
In this clip from the pilot episode, young Kwai Chang Caine (Grasshopper) and Shaolin Master Po meet for the first time. Master Po is quick to demonstrate to Grasshopper that great virtue is often hidden behind assumed misfortune.
This video was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest, who recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture. I was therefore surprised to see no one else had presented selected scenes from Kung Fu as an introduction to the Taoist philosophy.
In this clip from the pilot episode, young Caine is being instructed by Master Kan on the unity of all things. In the Shaolin tradition, harmony between mind and body is achieved by reflecting the grace seen in the animal kingdom. Master Kan reminds us that discord is something only known to man; since in nature there is only ever harmony between the species.
This video was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest, who had recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera / Keith Carradine) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture. I was therefore surprised to see no one else had presented selected scenes from Kung Fu as an introduction to the Taoist philosophy.
In this clip from the pilot episode, Master Kan explains how difficult tasks can be achieved by drawing on inner strength. In Taoism this is called 'chi'.
This video was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest, who had recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture. I was therefore surprised to see no one else had presented selected scenes from Kung Fu as an introduction to the Taoist philosophy.
In this clip from the pilot episode, a teenaged Kwai Chang Caine (Keith Carradine) asks his Shaolin masters how to deal with force. They respond by telling young Caine to avoid aggression wherever possible. Master Kan takes this idea further by introducing the Taoist concept of wu-wei. This is the practice of achieving more by flowing with nature, rather than using unnecessary force.
This video was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest, who had recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture. I was therefore surprised to see no one else had presented selected scenes from Kung Fu as an introduction to the Taoist philosophy.
In this clip from the pilot episode, Caine (David Carradine) is discussing life with a fellow expatriate. Their discussion touches on the unity of opposites, which is symbolised in Taoism as the yin-yang. The yin-yang is the most important concept in Taoism.
Caine also compares the Tao with water in this conversation. Water is a great analogy for the Tao since all life depends on water, yet water always takes the lowest position. Water would rather take the easy path around a mountain, than to force it's way through. Nothing is softer than water, but given enough time water will wear down the hardest rock and cut the deepest ravines.
Curiously, this is one of the many times throughout the series where "Tao" is seemingly mispronounced. I'm not sure if this was done intentionally, so as not to confuse a Western audience. However, the 'T' in Tao is normally pronounced as a 'D'. Depending on the translation system used, it is also sometimes written as 'Dao'.
This video was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest, who recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture. I was therefore surprised to see no one else had presented selected scenes from Kung Fu as an introduction to the Taoist philosophy.
In this clip from the pilot episode, Kwai Chang Caine is now a man. As a child, Master Kan told Caine he would be ready to leave the temple when he could snatch a stone from his hand. After many years unifying body and mind, Caine now has the skill to do this. Master Kan's last words to Caine is to walk with his head bowed. Followers of the Tao know that pride and ego will always prevent the obtainment of virtue.
This video was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest, who had recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera / Keith Carradine) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture. I was therefore surprised to see no one else had presented selected scenes from Kung Fu as an introduction to the Taoist philosophy.
In this clip from the "King of The Mountain" episode, Caine recalls Master Kan's words on the value of all life. Master Kan advices us to look upon all of the earth's creatures as teachers of virtue, rather than just food. In the oneness of Nature, nothing is more significant than the other. Our ultimate goal should be to live in a way that allows all life to flourish in the unity that is Nature.
This video was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest who had recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture. I was therefore surprised to see no one else had presented selected scenes from Kung Fu as an introduction to the Taoist philosophy.
In this clip from the double Emmy episode "An Eye For An Eye", Caine is confronted by a small group of Native Americans. He recalls the teachings of Master Po who recites chapter 50 of the 'Tao Te Ching', written by the ancient Taoist master Lao Tzu.
By having an understanding of his adversaries, Caine is in a position to turn the tables. His Shaolin skills allow him to sneak up on the Native Americans as they sleep. He is now in a position to easily dispatch them, but he instead chooses to sit quietly amongst them. With this action Caine is demonstrating another of Lao Tzu's virtues: 'He who knows how to be aggressive and yet remains patient, becomes a receptacle for all of Nature's lessons'.
This video was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest who had recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture. I was therefore surprised to see no one else had presented selected scenes from Kung Fu as an introduction to the Taoist philosophy.
In this clip from the episode "King of the Mountain", Caine recalls the words of Master Kan. Kan explains that harmony is only achieved through non-contention. There is no contention in Nature and everything succeeds.
This video was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest who had recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture. I was therefore surprised to see no one else had presented selected scenes from Kung Fu as an introduction to the Taoist philosophy.
In this clip from the episode called 'The Tide', Master Kan is echoing the words of the ancient Taoist sage Lao Tzu. "Those who do not trust also can not be trusted."
It may seem natural to become untrusting after an act of deceit. However, this only serves to limit our experiences of life. Although trusting will sometimes end in despair; this pales into insignificance when compared to the rewards that can only be known through trusting another.
This video was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest who had recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture. I was therefore surprised to see no one else had presented selected scenes from Kung Fu as an introduction to the Taoist philosophy.
In this clip from the episode "Sun & Cloud Shadow", Master Po is using a pond of lotus flowers as a metaphor for enlightenment. All people draw from the same pond of existence, yet each obtains a different level of understanding. Master Po reminds Caine that a tall flower is no more beautiful or superior than a short flower.
This is in direct reference to a teaching of the ancient Taoist sage Lao Tzu, the author of Tao Te Ching. From chapter 49 of this Taoist sacred text, 'An enlightened person is not obstinate. She accepts what others have willed for themselves. She accepts those who appear good to be good; and she accepts those who appear bad to be good also.'
This video was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest who had recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture. I was therefore surprised to see no one else had presented selected scenes from Kung Fu as an introduction to the Taoist philosophy.
In this clip from the episode "Chains", a teenaged Caine is played by Keith Carradine. The chronically cataract inflicted Master Po, is giving Caine a lesson on evil and compassion.
Our perception of evil is often extremely bias. We usually only ever consider good and evil from our own very limited perspective. Yet as Master Po reminds us, the Universe is far more than just ourselves.
In war, both sides always consider themselves moral and the other side evil. This enables both sides to justify the use of brutal cruelty in the name of justice, freedom and all that is good.
The ancient Taoist sages believed that forcing others to be "good" will in fact create evil. The only way to truly defeat malevolence is with compassion, as in the tradition of Gandhi and Martin Luther King.
This video was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest who had recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture. I was therefore surprised to see no one else had presented selected scenes from Kung Fu as an introduction to the Taoist philosophy.
This short video is from the 1970's TV series "Kung Fu". "Kung Fu" tells of the adventures of a fictional Shaolin priest named Caine, played by David Carradine. Caine wanders the American "Wild West" with nothing more than compassion, moderation, humility and a little Shaolin magic.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the "Kung Fu" series, making it one of the most authentic interpretations of the Taoist philosophy in popular culture. I recently decided to present selected scenes from "Kung Fu", to illustrate this extremely insightful ancient Chinese philosophy.
This clip is from the episode called "The Praying Mantis Kills". This title comes from Caine's comments as he watched two men kneeling to pray prior to a gun fight. Caine observed that praying under these circumstances was as hollow and worthless as that of a praying mantis readying to kill.
In this scene, Caine is explaining to Martin (Wendell Burton) the subtleties of meditation. Caine explains that he is able to hit a target by considering himself, the bow, the arrow and the target as one action in Nature. This is an archery technique commonly practiced in Zen. (Zen is the union of Buddhism and Taoism.)
We often consider meditation as some type of mysterious process, but this really isn't the case. Meditation is simply anytime one becomes distracted from their usual thinking of time and self. Everyone has experienced this phenomena, but since it is extremely subtle, it is most often disregarded. Think of the last time you were surprised at how 'time flew'; or when you were so engaged in something, that you were unaware of anything else.
Caine meditates using archery. However fishing, reading, knitting, writing, solving puzzles, playing music or any other activity you find enjoyable can be just as effective as a meditation.
We often emerge from meditation feeling refreshed. This is because in this time we have briefly transcended our ego and have become an action of Nature. Again, this feeling of harmony is extremely subtle and often goes unnoticed. It is often only after we have evaluated the experience that we understand and appreciate the value of the meditative state.
This clip is from the episode called 'The Stone'. The scene opens with Master Po and Grasshopper in friendly combat. However, young Caine is angry, unfocused and is easily defeated by the blind Shaolin master.
Like young Caine, many of us go through life grumpy and anxious. All too often our minds are reliving failures of the past or worrying over an unknowable future. In this frame of mind we become rigid and out of harmony with our surroundings. Skilfulness can only be achieved through flexibility, spontaneity and being fully present in the "eternal now".
Master Po discovers Grasshopper is concerned that he is a coward. In the context of the yin-yang, Master Po explains: "What is cowardice, but the body's wisdom of its weakness. What is bravery, but the body's wisdom of its strength. The coward and the hero march together within every man. So to call one man a coward and another brave merely serves to indicate the possibilities of achieving the opposite."
This clip was taken from the 1970's TV series 'Kung Fu' (Created by Ed Spielman, Herman Miller and Jerry Thorpe). It is essentially an American Western set in the latter half of the 1800's, with an Eastern hero who has neither a gun or a horse. The story follows the adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine); a nature loving Shaolin priest who had recently fled China. He speaks softly but is no pushover. He lives humbly yet knows great contentment.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the wonderfully charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan (Philip Ahn), young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin was meticulously researched for the Kung Fu series. This makes Kung Fu one of the most authentic interpretations of Philosophical Taoism available in popular culture.
This short video is from the 1970's TV series "Kung Fu". "Kung Fu" tells the adventures of a fictional Shaolin priest named Kwai Chang Caine, played by David Carradine. Caine wanders the American "Wild West" in the 1880's, with nothing more than compassion, moderation, humility and a little Shaolin magic.
The teachings of the Shaolin were meticulously researched for the "Kung Fu" series, making it one of the most authentic interpretations of the Taoist philosophy in popular culture. I recently decided to post selected scenes from "Kung Fu", to illustrate this extremely insightful ancient Chinese philosophy.
This clip is from the last episode of the first season premiering in 1973. Entitled "Ancient Warrior", the episode tells the story of an elderly Native American who is the last of his tribe. Knowing that he is soon to die, Ancient Warrior (Chief Dan George) asks Caine to assist him locate his ancestral burial ground. Unfortunately, his sacred ground is now in a town where Ancient Warrior's tribe fought many fierce battles.
Although Ancient Warrior has forgiven the town's people for the genocide of his tribe; many of the town's people are unable to forgive him and forbid his burial. Nevertheless, after much protracted debate, Ancient Warrior is granted permission. Yet he declines. He tells Caine he does not want to be buried in a place where there is so much hatred.
Caine is deeply moved by the ailing chief's strength to forgive his enemies. Although by a different name, it is evident Ancient Warrior is a follower of Tao, as is anyone who follows the virtuous ways of Nature.
While cremating Ancient Warrior, Caine recalls the words of Master Kan (Philip Ahn). Master Kan explains how a physical love in life elevates to spiritual unification in death. Anyone who has lost a loved one knows that their thoughts and dreams are regularly occupied by their deceased beloved.
Caine then asks Master Kan if this level of connection is dependant on duration. To this Master Kan replies,"Our soul does not keep time; it merely records growth." Most of us have encountered someone who has profoundly influenced us. Our time in their presence may have been brief and yet their inspiration is eternal.
More about this video and Taoism here...............................
This short video is from the 1970's TV series "Kung Fu". "Kung Fu" tells the adventures of a fictional Shaolin priest named Kwai Chang Caine, played by David Carradine. Caine wanders the American "Wild West" in the 1880's, with nothing more than compassion, moderation, humility and a little Shaolin magic.
Each episode also takes the viewer back to Caine's childhood in the Shaolin temple. It is here under the instruction of the blind charismatic Master Po (Keye Luke) and the stern yet loving Master Kan, young Caine (Radames Pera) learns the harmoniously balanced ways of Tao.
The teachings of the Shaolin were meticulously researched for the "Kung Fu" series, making it one of the most authentic interpretations of the Taoist philosophy in popular culture. I recently decided to post selected scenes from "Kung Fu", to illustrate this extremely insightful ancient Chinese philosophy.
In this clip from the episode called "The Brujo", young Caine is perplexed over the death of a boy who died after being cursed by a sorcerer. Master Po explains that an undiscerning mind sometimes gives life no choice but to fly away.
Chapter 50 of the Taoist sacred text the 'Tao Te Ching' affirms 'He who knows how to live has no place for death to enter'. From this verse we can see that a love of life is pivotal in retaining it. A genuine gratitude for existence and an ability to stay light hearted, even in adversity are very favourable traits for longevity.
We may find it laughable that a curse could bring about harm. Nevertheless, many outwardly intelligent people fear the wrath of unsubstantiated myths and dogma. Ironically, the stress that results from these beliefs may compromise health, opening us up to the very illnesses and misfortune we fear.
In this regard we should all heed the words of Master Po and learn from those who have succumb to stress. Undoubtedly the best way to overcome misinformation, manipulation and illogical fears is by developing a very discerning mind. The required knowledge to develop this can be obtained intuitively from Nature and from the teachings of her greatest devotees. The great teachers of Nature's virtues include Einstein, Buddha, Lao Tzu, David Suzuki, Alan Watts, John Hagelin, Fritjof Capra, Deng Ming-Dao, Benjamin Hoff, The Dalai Lama, Deepak Chopra, Thich Nhat Hahn and Chuang Tzu to name just a few.
More about this video and Taoism here.........................
This short video is from the 1970's TV series "Kung Fu". "Kung Fu" tells the adventures of a fictional Shaolin priest named Kwai Chang Caine, played by David Carradine. Caine wanders the American "Wild West" in the 1880's, with nothing more than compassion, moderation, humility and a little Shaolin magic.
The teachings of the Shaolin were meticulously researched for the "Kung Fu" series, making it one of the most authentic interpretations of the Taoist philosophy in popular culture. I recently decided to post selected scenes from "Kung Fu", to illustrate this extremely insightful ancient Chinese philosophy.
In this clip from the episode "The Brujo", Caine meets a Christian priest. Father Salazer (Julio Medina) is surprised to hear Caine is also a priest and asks him what he worships. Caine gives the simple yet profound answer "Life".
We often take the process of life for granted, but can there really be anything above this phenomenon? Why do so many of us search for something beyond Nature's most magnificent achievement?
Taoism is the belief life is a direct manifestation of the ultimate and there is nothing beyond this. All things, including oneself, are an aspect of the total unity called the Tao. The Tao is beyond all sensory awareness and words, yet the wisdom of the Tao is intuitively available to everyone.
This is a very unfamiliar paradigm for Westerners, who have unshakable faith in their sensory awareness. It is probably for this reason Western culture perpetuates a view that everything is isolated and the only thing common to everything is a personal God.
A world of isolation is considered an illusion in Taoism, although an extremely convincing one. To put the Taoist concept of absolute unity into context, rather than "Love your neighbour"; a Taoist believes that at a level beyond normal perception, you are your neighbour. This may seem unbelievable, but this parallels the findings of modern science.
More about this video and Taoism here......................
This short video is from the 1970's TV series "Kung Fu". "Kung Fu" tells the adventures of a fictional Shaolin priest named Kwai Chang Caine, played by David Carradine. Caine wanders the American "Wild West" in the 1880's, with nothing more than compassion, moderation, humility and a little Shaolin magic.
The teachings of the Shaolin were meticulously researched for the "Kung Fu" series, making it one of the most authentic interpretations of the Taoist philosophy in popular culture. I recently decided to post selected scenes from "Kung Fu", to illustrate this extremely insightful ancient Chinese philosophy.
In this clip from "The Soldier" episode, Caine is testing his agility and courage in front of an audience of students. However, Master Kan (Philip Ahn) sees Caine's activities as nothing but reckless egotism.
I guess we are all guilty of playing to the gallery from time to time. It may seem pointless to be skilful or knowledgeable if it doesn't result in recognition. But why is the admiration of others so essential? Why do we feel worthless unless we have the praise of others?
Yet, most of us avoid people that we suspect have a narcissistic disposition. These people are often boasting of their achievements and importance in an effort to obtain admiration. They may also become emotionally volatile if the approval they seek isn't forthcoming. Their ego is effectively enslaved by the opinions of others. Consequently their sense of self-worth varies wildly, often making any interactions with them very unpleasant.
The ancient Taoist master Lao Tzu, deliberated on egotism in the 'Tao Te Ching'. From chapter 24 of this Taoist sacred text:
"People who make a show are not wise.
Those who are self-righteous will not be respected.
Those who boast achieve very little and don't endure.
Behaving in this way will not bring happiness.
People are despised for there pride and admired for their humility."
From this verse we can see that a rampant ego distances us from the Tao and the people around us. Therefore a follower of the Tao pursues skill and wisdom, but remains unpretentious. She knows contentment can only come from within. Furthermore, living without either the desire for approval or the fear of rejection, she is truly free.
This short video is from the 1970's TV series "Kung Fu". The TV show told of the adventures of a fictional Shaolin priest who wanders the "wild west". The teachings of the Shaolin were meticulously researched for this series, making it one of the most authentic interpretations of the Taoist philosophy in popular culture.
This clip is from an episode that is a personal favourite of mine, "The Hoots". In this scene Caine (David Carradine) is questioning Master Po (Keye Luke) on discipline. Master Po gives the seemingly contradictory advice, "The purpose of discipline is to live more fully, not less." This may seem like an odd response since we usually think of discipline as denial rather than abundance.
Following the Tao is to discover one's true nature. In the Taoist philosophy this is called "p'u". This translates into English as "the uncarved block", such as a block of stone before it has been shaped. This is the process of returning to one's original self, before learnt behaviours and negative social influences. As you may suspect, it is very difficult to abandon long established paradigms. It requires courage and determination to live instinctively and resist the urge to second guess all your actions.
Regrettably we live in a world that widely believes everything should be highly structured and generally sees all chance events as undesirable. Most of us would control the weather if it was within our means. Yet doing so would be forgoing that unexpected change that brings so much pleasure.
It is commonly believed that trusting chance is too risky and success can only be achieved by rigid control. We like to believe despair is simply the result of bad planning and happiness is easily contrived. Yet haven't our greatest pleasures always been a surprise; and our deepest sorrows beyond our control?
Therefore, life is best lived like a forest bird who sings whenever so inclined. This is the serenity that can only be known by living an uncalculated life. A condition where tears and laughter occur spontaneously; and regrets and anxiety have no presence.
This short video is from the 1970's TV series "Kung Fu". It tells the adventures of a fictional Shaolin priest who wanders the American Wild West. The teachings of the Shaolin were meticulously researched for this series, making it one of the most authentic interpretations of the Taoist philosophy in popular culture.
This is another clip from "The Hoots" episode. Here we see Caine (David Carradine) recalling Master Po's (Keye Luke) rendition of chapter 11 of the Tao Te Ching. This sacred Taoist text reminds us that a cup would have no purpose if it did not have space within itself in which liquid could be contained. A wheel would be useless without the emptiness at its centre in which an axel can be inserted. A room would be unusable without the space created in the walls for a doorway and window. All these features can be thought of as emptiness; yet it is this very space or nothingness that makes the material aspects of these objects useful.
Emptiness is one of the most intriguing concepts in Taoist philosophy and it parallels many of the discoveries made by modern physics. Most of us wouldn't ordinarily give emptiness a second thought, dismissing it as irrelevant and serving no purpose. We generally believe only material things have value. We see space, nothing, silence, non-material, inaction and subtleness as useless. Therefore we live in a world where everything is pushed to capacity, filled beyond what is required and forced until destroyed.
Chapter 11 concludes by telling us to be useful by becoming empty. In common vernacular this simply means not being "full of yourself". It is only when we are free of self-interest that we are truly able to offer an impartial and sympathetic ear. All too often what is past off as benevolence is merely an ego imposing its own arbitrary standards onto others. Genuine compassion can only be achieved by a self empty of ego.
On another level, emptiness is the fundamental ground state of all physical things. We usually assume everything is made of smaller things of ever decreasing size. Our bodies are constructed of cells; the cells are constructed from DNA; the DNA is constructed from molecules; and molecules are constructed from atoms. Atoms are usually thought of as solid spheres; but this is not the case. Atoms are essentially an empty vacuum containing a massive amount of pulsating energy.
Consequently for the most part we are emptiness, as are all material things. This is only difficult to imagine because we are so convincingly deceived by our sensory awareness. If we were able to experience this underlying reality first hand, we would know emptiness unites us all. Naturally this is the purpose of meditation; to see through the illusion of one's sensory awareness and have a firsthand account of emptiness.
Nevertheless we are all able to look out into the night sky on a cloudless evening and see the vast emptiness of space. From this it seems evident that emptiness is the Universe's most dominant feature; yet the significance of this escapes us. .
This is another clip from "The Hoots" episode, from the 1970's TV series "Kung Fu". Caine (David Carradine) is disheartened over the hostility he has witnessed in the marketplace. Like most of us, Caine wishes for a world that only knows harmony. Yet Master Po (Keye Luke) explains we can only know peace and harmony because of the existence of conflict and discord. He then recites the words of ancient Taoist master, Lao Tzu:
"In the Universe all can see beauty as beauty only because there is ugliness.
All can know good as good only because there is evil.
Therefore having and not having arise together.
Difficult and easy complement each other.
High and low rest upon each other;
Front and back follow one another."
This verse comes from the observations of Nature made in the Taoist sacred text, the Tao Te Ching. The ancient Taoists noticed that everything in Nature has an equal and opposite aspect. They also noticed that mankind could only ever know and experience something by also knowing its opposite aspect. Needless to say this interaction of opposite forces, is what is being symbolized by the well-known Taoist motif, the yin-yang.
The ancient Chinese masters understood we could only know something if it was contrasted by its opposite. Naturally, we can only see text if the background is a contrasting colour. We are only able to define the warmth of summer if we have experienced the chill of winter. We can only see something as beautiful because of the unattractiveness of something else. We can only know something is big because we know of something smaller to serve as a comparison. We can only know something as benevolent when we have knowledge of evil. In the same way, we can only know peace and harmony because we have experienced conflict and dispute.
Therefore we can not experience anything positive without also having experienced its negative counterpart. How could we know joy without ever experiencing sadness? How could we define success if we had never failed? How could we know we were awake if we had never been asleep? How could we appreciate the value of life if it did not always end in death?
After careful consideration we will soon see that our usual ideas of utopia are really a wish for a long boring existence without variety or surprises. It would be like eating the same food for every meal; having the same weather everyday; or never encountering anything unfamiliar. As Master Po states so elegantly in this video, "Would you make the whole world a temple?"
This video is from the "Empty Pages of a Dead Book" episode, from the 1970's TV series "Kung Fu". Here we see Master Kan (Philip Ahn) questioning Young Caine (Radames Pera) and Yet-Sen (Raymond Chao) over the fruit taken during a period of fasting. Earlier Master Kan had told the young students that they must not pick the ripe plums in the garden, since to do this would be breaking the law. Young Caine later witnesses Yet-Sen picking the plums, but is left unsure whether he should report the matter to Master Kan. Later Caine finds out that Yet-Sen was feeding the plums to an injured dove.
On hearing what had transpired Master Kan realises that he had done the two students a great disservice. His law has led Caine to unfairly doubt his friend's integrity and had forced Yet-Sen to conceal a good deed. Although Master Kan had made his law with every good intention, the virtue that had been intended had been lost. Therefore the master honours the two students for reminding him of the error of attending only to the letter of the law and not its purpose.
The ancient Taoists did not trust words and often warned of the dangers that resulted from rigidness. The sages advised the Chinese nobility against putting the laws into print, citing this would only cause confusion.
You may find these ideas strange, but think of how often the laws are poorly applied. We have all heard of the occasions where victims are treated like criminals; and the criminals able to escaped justice on a small technicality. These are both examples of where the initial intent of law has been lost. Of course our law makers are endlessly trying to address these inequalities, but this is a never ending process of amendments that only serves to drown the original intent further in complex legal syntax.
Since the dawn of time mankind has desired an infallible code that would bring about an utopian existence. Naturally this desire gave birth to the religious scriptures in which many of our modern laws are derived. Believing them to be the word of God gave these laws authority, making them beyond the questioning of mere mortals. Unfortunately the authors of the scriptures were mortals and they wrote the laws with only specific instances in mind, disregarding the countless variables of Nature. The result of this is we now live in a world where religious fanatics are using the scriptures to justify committing the very evils that these holy doctrines were intended to prevent.
Nevertheless, even in our highly secular culture we still attempt to solve all our social problems by the creation of laws of ever increasing complexity. This is often in the misguided belief that these laws will protect us from the predatory behaviour of others. Yet sociopaths never see the law as a barrier. They usually believe themselves above the law and are confident they can escape prosecution using their charm and intelligence. Sociopaths are more likely to see rules and laws as something to oppress and manipulate the rest of us.
The system of justice the ancient Taoists favoured is the flexibility and innate order of Nature. Called "Li" by the ancients, this is the pattern of intelligence that is beyond the description of words. We can see this indescribable pattern as the markings in jade, the fibre in muscle and the grain in wood. These organic configurations have a very sophisticated order that can't be described or aptly defined. "Li" is usually translated into English as "organic order".
The Taoists believed justice should be dispensed on a case by case basis by people who possess Li. Together with compassion, moderation, humility; these people would have an innate sense of justice beyond what could be defined by our current legal system.
Needless to say our modern judicial system is in some aspects an attempt to emulate "Li". But unfortunately we too often see our courts hamstrung by complex bureaucracy; restricted by inflexible and archaic laws; and their decisions too often criticised by a public who haven't been privy to all the evidence presented.
This video is from the "Dream within a Dream" episode, from the 1970's TV series "Kung Fu". Here we see Master Kan (Philip Ahn) and Young Caine (Radames Pera) discuss the Truth that can only be know through personal change.
You may believe you are already open to the Truth, but unfortunately most of us are prevented from obtaining the Truth by our ego. From the perspective of ego everything we encounter is judged from the extremely bias position of self. Therefore everything we hear, see or experience is filtered through the barriers of desire, pride, jealousy, regret, self-centeredness, guilt, resentment, self-importance and superiority; and these are extremely difficult obstacles to surmount.
We witness these egocentric barriers on a daily bases. Many people find it difficult to admit fault even when they are undoubtedly in the wrong. Others can't accept the injustices committed by their own nation, even in the face of overwhelming evidence. Numerous people are unable to see any redeeming qualities of an opponent of any description, whether it be a political group, another nation or a sporting adversary. Many of us lack the humility to accept there are many things beyond our understanding and belligerently dismiss anything that doesn't fit our established paradigms. Finally there are still many of our number that in spite of all the evidence of equality, still harbour sexist, racist and homophobic attitudes. Unless these people are able to change and overcome these most basic of prejudices, the Truth will always be an unattainable goal.
It is only when our ego is no longer the dominate factor in our life that we can embark on a quest to obtain the Truth. However, be warned that the Truth is not always beautiful and comforting. A major part of being a Truth seeker is accepting the Truth regardless of what it is. This means accepting the things you wouldn't ordinarily consider and opening your mind to new, unfamiliar and possibly very confronting concepts.
We find the Truth by developing our knowledge of life and observing the world around us. You may recall in "The Tao of Kung Fu #17", Caine was asked where his knowledge came from. Caine replied, "From my teachers and the days I have lived." Unfortunately we can't all be lucky enough to have Master Kan and Master Po as our teachers. Nevertheless with the advent of the internet we can easily make ourselves acquainted with the greatest interpreters of Nature's wisdom. Many of these great teachers feature predominately on my website and Youtube channel. I hope you find these resources useful.
Over time you will develop a disposition where Nature can reveal her lessons to you directly. Simply allow yourself time to watch the world around you without identifying and judgment. Most importantly, allow yourself to experience things as they truly are and not how you wish them to be.
Many people believe the ancient Taoists were opposed to knowledge, citing chapter 48 of the Tao Te Ching, "In the pursuit of learning, every day something is acquired. In the pursuit of Tao, every day something is dropped." However, this simply means those on the path don't acquire knowledge in order to control and manipulate, as is often the goal. Instead knowledge is used to change oneself from within and become one with all things.
Once this has been achieved, the knowledge that got you there is no longer required and can therefore be dropped. The ancient Taoist sage Chuang Tzu explained it this way, "The fish trap exists because of the fish; once you've got the fish, you can forget the trap. The rabbit snare exists because of the rabbit; once you've got the rabbit, you can forget the snare. Words exist because of meaning; once you've got the meaning, you can forget the words. Where can I find a man who has forgotten words so I can have a word with him?"
Learn more about the Shaolin philosophy here.................
This is a clip from the "Uncertain Bondage" episode of the 1970's television series "Kung Fu". In this scene young Caine (Radames Pera) is regretting his foolish pride. Master Kan (Philip Ahn) seeks to comfort Caine by reciting chapter 36 of the Taoist text, the Tao Te Ching:
"That which shrinks must first expand.
That which fails must first be strong.
That which is cast down must first be raised.
Before receiving there must be giving."
This verse reveals that retraction is only possible after expansion. Master Kan uses the words of the sage Lao Tzu to allow young Caine to understand that humility can only come from pride; and wisdom can only come from foolishness.
It may seem ironic that we can only evolve from our failings and ignorance. Yet too often pride is the only barrier between our ego and the lessons that are hidden in our poor judgement. The ancient Taoists recognised the greatest of all wisdom is knowing how truly little we actually know.
We see most institutions deal with pride by enforcing strict and often brutal discipline. However Master Kan understands, "Before receiving there must be giving"; so the Shaolin master bows to his young student. He explains respect is born from the Nature they share and so to honour another is to also honour oneself.
Many of us have high standards of etiquette and politeness that we regularly exchange with others. It isn't necessarily expected of us; nevertheless we expect it from ourselves. It is in this way we are showing a respect for oneself and the Nature we all share.
The master goes on to explain to Caine that each of them has qualities that is lacking in the other. He then advises Caine, "Look beyond the surface. See what is real, in yourself and others." For from a position of absolute humility it is obvious that all the differences are in fact superficial; whereas the Nature we all share is undoubtedly inherent.
Unfortunately and contrary to all the scientific evidence, many of our number are still unaware of the fundamental reality we all share. Yet if any of us was to be placed alone in the hostile environment of an alien planet, this critical interdependence would become immediately apparent and its absence deeply grieved.
Learn more about the philosophy of the Shaolin here.................
This scene from the 'Arrogant Dragon' episode of the 1970's television series 'Kung Fu'; is a personal favourite of mine. I often think of how wonderful it would be to have the guidance of such a charismatic and wise teacher as Master Po. Someone who would gently challenge one's intellect and implant the seeds of wisdom within all he encountered.
In this scene young Caine (Radames Pera) and Master Po (Keye Luke) are ambushed by a thief while on their return journey to the temple. To avoid unnecessarily escalating the situation, Master Po initially cooperates with the thief. However, as the thiefs requests become increasingly unreasonable, Master Po decides to defend his property and we see the robber beat a hasty retreat.
In a world that generally sees force and control as favourable attributes, most of us reason that "turning the other cheek" is not a viable option. Naturally, the best way is to always distance yourself from hostility and avoid situations where conflict is most likely.
It must be noted that in this clip Master Po neither reacts with anger or cruelty. Nor does he pursue the thief in an attempt to exact retribution. He only uses enough force to end the situation and nothing more. In chapter 67 of the Tao Te Ching, the Taoist Lao Tzu reminds us "When people are gentle, they have no fear of retaliation." (Bahm translation)
Too often people and regularly whole nations respond with force that is beyond what is necessary. We frequently see the defender become an oppressive victor; thus creating a endless cycle of retribution. Think of the numerous brutal tit-for-tat conflicts in the world today, where deep hatred is past down from father to son for generations.
Consequently, the first goal in any conflict must be to resolve it using the minimum of force and resisting the desire for ascendancy. For the greater the humiliation and harm inflicted; the greater the repercussions and the freedoms forgone.
Posts
