What is the Gamma Tao?
The Gamma Tao (γ道) is not the eternal Tao. The Gamma Tao does have a name and can also be discussed. It does not stand for ultimate truth. It is not the alpha and omega.
The Gamma Tao is only a beginning, a starting point for a personal wisdom journey.
First of all, it is part of my journey, but the Gamma Tao may inspire you as well.
The word Gamma Tao is composed of the third letter of the Greek alphabet γ (gamma) and the Chinese character 道 (Tao or dào, meaning “way” or “path”), indicating the initial steps towards wisdom.
The core of the Gamma Tao is a symbol (or model) that stands for a few basic and general principles. These principles are not new at all. On the contrary, they can be found in most religions and philosophies of life all over the world.
The symbol has two forms: a form that expresses theory and a form that indicates practice. These forms represent two sides of life: contemplation and action (vita contemplativa and vita activa). The basic ideas of the Gamma Tao and its symbol are explained on this website.
The main objective of the Gamma Tao is to help develop a wisdom mindset.
The Gamma Tao is a moral compass for wisdom seekers like myself who have an open mind towards all wisdom traditions of humanity. Wisdom is not a quality that exclusively belongs to someone or to a specific tradition. Even though we may believe that our traditions are the best, we can always learn from others. Wisdom keepers are everywhere.
The Gamma Tao offers an inclusive and basic common ground for all wisdom traditions, both secular and religious. At the same time it is evolving continuously through practical experience and new scientific, psychological and philosophical insights.
It is possible to consider yourself a γHumanist, γTaoist, γChristian, γBuddhist, γMuslim, γJewish, γHindu, γPagan, γAtheist or any combination of these and other wisdom traditions by simply observing the minimal principles of this basic “interfaith philosophy”.
The γ of the Gamma Tao is a “silent γ” that does not need to be pronounced, like a moment to take a breath.
In theory the γ is unbiased and comes before all the divisions that separate us. At the same time it is open to the wisdom of different traditions and perspectives. The γ also stands for this bifurcation towards all colours of diversity.
Although the Gamma Tao is rooted in traditions, it is not traditional. Its focus is always on the present moment and directed towards the future.
The Gamma Tao is like a seed that causes the positive potential that is present in all situations to flourish. This flourishing can be seen as a state of “happiness” (or in Ancient Greek: eudaimonía).
The Gamma Tao can also protect us from extremism. As long as we keep our minds open, act with good intentions and observe the basic principles gratitude, compassion and, last but not least, the just proportion, we will be able to distill wisdom from any tradition without falling into extremes.
The Gamma Tao can lead us to a secular personal philosophy of life or a spiritual personal religion. On a basic level these divisions are less important than they seem.
The Gamma Tao is all about the living art of being in the universe.
How could the Gamma Tao be relevant for others and the world?
In our ever more connected and at the same time divided world initiatives like the Gamma Tao may offer a common ground, a set of basic principles and values that almost all wisdom traditions share. Such a common ground may help to increase mutual (interfaith) understanding and prevent harmful forms of tribalism and extremism.
The focus of the Gamma Tao is on wisdom, not truth. Even when it becomes more and more difficult to agree on truth, we still need to make wise decisions.
The Gamma Tao may also reinforce the connection with our natural environment indicating the way to sustainable growth of natural proportions.
Finally, both forms of the Gamma symbol offer visual ways to contemplate and practice its basic principles and values. The symbol or model is simple to understand and easy to keep in mind at all times.
The Gamma Tao is simple, but the longer you keep it in mind you will discover its depth.
The Gamma Tao is an “open source” initiative.
Everyone is free to use the Gamma Tao, to adapt it and test it in his or her own life. I am already happy if you take a moment to reflect on it.
I share the Gamma Tao without any illusion that it will ever be popular. I am very reluctant to promote it. Ask me and I will talk about it, otherwise I will remain silent. I am not on a mission to get followers. Actually I prefer fellow travelers. Everybody has to follow his or her own path. If the Gamma Tao can help others on their way, that would be great. If others can teach me something useful, that would be even better.
This website is all there is right now. If I continue to find time and inspiration there may even be a book on the Gamma Tao. A book is still a distant goal, but the process of writing will first of all be part of my own wisdom journey.
What I can share, will be on this website. Everything will always be work in progress. The texts are neither perfect nor written in stone. They will always be subject to change and corrections. The way towards wisdom is a permanent learning process.
You are always welcome to explore !