Taoism Religion History
Chinese Taoism can be described as a great variety of various concepts and philosophies that govern everyday life. The traditions that Taoism has created have had a significant influence on East Asia for nearly two thousand years. Many of these beliefs and practices have now spread to the West. Tao means “path” or “way”, but there are many other abstract meanings of the word in Chinese folk culture. The ethics behind Taoism follow the Three Jewels of the Tao, being compassion, moderation, and humility. Taoist philosophy is greatly steeped in nature, healthy living, and our connection to the cosmos, effortless action, liberty, immortality, and spontaneity.
Some of the most popular beliefs of Taoism are used in everyday life not only in the East, but to a greater extent in the west as well. There is a great belief in Taoism of reverence for all natural spirits and immortals that dwell amongst us. There is a schism between the Organized Taoist religion, and the folk version of the religion that is sometimes discounted as being debased. Some of the greatest innovations and Chinese disciplines such as alchemy, astrology, cuisine, martial arts, medicine, and feng shui are all greatly influenced and governed by the principles of Taoism.
Taoism is believed to have its origins in the folk regions of China in prehistoric times. Laozi is regarded as the founder of Taoism as we know it today. In the mid 2nd century, Laozi was officially given the status of a divinity. This was during the Tang dynasty in China, when the leaders claimed Laozi to be a relative of their family.
Many dynasties for hundreds of years went back and forth in their favor for either Taoism or Confucianism. It wasn’t until the 18th century that the imperial library was constituted entirely of Taoism materials. Then in the 20th century, Taoism fell strongly out of favor.
Taoism isn’t a unified religion in the traditional sense, but more of a constitution of numerous beliefs and revelations. Some of the core beliefs of Taoism include naturalness, vitality, peace, emptiness, and detachment, just to name a few. The “Tao” is considered the road or path, and is often translated as the natural flow of the universe. When Taoists align their path with the natural flow of the universe, then they too can experience this flow in their lives. Therefore, Taoists believe in aligning one’s self with the natural order and flow of things.
