What Is Taoism?
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Submitted by corpicon on 06/30/2008 05:21 PM
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What Is Taoism?
Taoism is an ancient belief of the eastern Asian countries, China and Japan. Its existence is traced back to the Shang and Chou dynasties and co-existed as an additional belief to Confucianism. As a result of the overthrow of the Shang Dynasty by Chou, the religion took on the idea of the "Mandate of Heaven". The new rulers of the Chou Dynasty used this to justify their rule and set forth the concept of human destiny is determined by virtuous deeds'.
Tao (pronounced "Dow") can be generally translated as path', or the way'. Tao is basically indefinable. It has to be experienced. It "refers to a power which envelops, surrounds and flows through all things, living and non-living. The Tao regulates natural processes and nourishes balance in the Universe. This belief is the basis for the self-generating energy called ch'i. The Yin and Yang symbol represents this harmonious balance of the universe while representing the struggle between the good and evil.
Because of this it co-existence with Confucianism and its influences on Buddhism it is usually adorned by those seeking to be carefree and one with nature. As stated Tao is not a religion in its self but a set of beliefs and guidance that one follows to overcome the powers of evil and live in harmony with nature. Taoism as a religion is actually an embodiment of Tao ways, Confucian virtues and Buddhist rituals.
During the second century CE various Tao sects developed and or used practices such as alchemy, faith-healing, sorcery and/or power objects into institutionalized and distinctive social movements. As the Han Dynasty began to decline the Tao belief system diminished and gave way to religious and political organizations. Over the next twelve centuries the Tao beliefs faced several challenges to its balance between the Yin and Yang of the universe with revelations and predictions of its re-growth.
The more modern Taoism beliefs come from a series of 1,500 scriptures...
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