Hello Sophi. Please could you explain Taoism?

Hello. Sure… Taoism is a philosophical and religious tradition that originated in ancient China. It is based on the teachings of Lao Tzu, a Chinese philosopher who lived in the 6th century BCE. According to legend, Lao Tzu was a record keeper in the imperial court who became disillusioned with society and decided to leave it. On his way out of town, a gatekeeper asked him to write down his teachings before departing. Lao Tzu complied and wrote the Tao Te Ching, which is the foundational text of Taoism. The Tao Te Ching is a collection of 81 short chapters that offer guidance on how to live a simple, natural, and harmonious life. It teaches that the Tao (pronounced “dow”), or the way, is the ultimate reality that underlies all existence. It cannot be described or named, but it can be experienced through a state of inner harmony and balance. Taoism emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with nature and the Tao, rather than striving for material success or social status. It encourages individuals to cultivate humility, compassion, and non-attachment, and to live in harmony with others and the environment. In addition to the Tao Te Ching, Taoism also includes other texts such as the Chuang Tzu and the Lieh Tzu, which expand upon and clarify the teachings of Lao Tzu. Taoism has had a significant influence on Chinese culture and history, and it has also spread to other parts of the world. It has been associated with practices such as meditation, feng shui, and tai chi, and it continues to be a source of inspiration for those seeking a more balanced and harmonious way of life.

So what should I expect to learn if I dig deeper into Taoism?

If you want to dig deeper into Taoism, you can expect to learn more about its philosophy, practices, and history. Here are a few areas you may want to explore:

1. Philosophy: Taoism is a complex philosophy with many layers of meaning. Some of the key concepts you may want to explore include the Tao, the Yin-Yang, wu-wei (non-action), and the Three Treasures (compassion, frugality, and humility). You may also want to explore how Taoism compares and contrasts with other philosophical traditions, such as Confucianism and Buddhism.
2. Practices: Taoism has a rich tradition of practices that help individuals cultivate their inner harmony and balance. These practices include meditation, qigong (breathing exercises), tai chi (a martial art), feng shui (the arrangement of physical space), and traditional Chinese medicine. You may want to explore these practices and see how they can be integrated into your own life.
3. History: Taoism has a long and fascinating history that spans over 2,000 years. You may want to learn about the different periods of Taoism, from its origins with Lao Tzu and the Tao Te Ching, to the emergence of religious Taoism and its incorporation into Chinese culture and society. You may also want to learn about the key figures and texts in Taoism, as well as its influence on other cultures and traditions. Overall, exploring Taoism can be a rewarding journey that deepens your understanding of yourself, others, and the world around you.

Is it widely followed today?

Yes, Taoism is still followed today, primarily in China and other parts of East Asia. However, it is difficult to estimate the exact number of Taoists worldwide, as there are different forms of Taoism, and many people who practice Taoist rituals and customs may not necessarily identify as Taoists. There are two main branches of Taoism: philosophical Taoism and religious Taoism. Philosophical Taoism is more focused on the study of Taoist philosophy and the Tao Te Ching, while religious Taoism involves the worship of deities, the practice of rituals, and the pursuit of immortality through alchemy and other spiritual practices. Religious Taoism has had a complex relationship with the Chinese government throughout history. It was suppressed during the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s and 1970s, but has since experienced a revival. Today, the Chinese government recognizes five official religions, including Taoism, and supports the restoration and preservation of Taoist temples and traditions. Overall, while the exact number of Taoists is difficult to determine, Taoism continues to be an important part of Chinese culture and religion, and it has also gained followers in other parts of the world through its emphasis on spiritual harmony and balance.

You’ve not mentioned a god here. Does Taoism include faith in one or more deities ?

You might be interested in learning about its origins and the foundational text, the Tao Te Ching. Additionally, if you are curious about the history of Taoism and its influence on Chinese culture, you can delve into the different periods of Taoism, from its beginnings with Lao Tzu to the emergence of religious Taoism. To gain a broader understanding of Taoism’s impact on other cultures and traditions, you can also explore its key figures and texts. If you want to know more about Taoist beliefs and practices, including the role of deities and supernatural beings, you can dive into the diverse and varied aspects of Taoism.