Essay on Taoism - 1326 Words

Taoism Taoism originated in China during the 300s BC. It has been part of the Chinese culture for 2,000 years. It was during the same time period as Confucianism, but had opposite ideas and morals, yet it was equally as important as Confucianism in Chinese history. Taoism began as a reaction to historical situations(c1), and became a philosophy of the natural way. The word Tao actually means road or way. Taoism has had a large impact on art and literature, and had been greatly influenced by Chinese folk religion. Folk religion says that most gods were actually just people who displayed heroic qualities. The priests conducted public rituals. Many Taoists seek careers in astronomy, herbal remedies, and alchemy, among†¦show more content†¦The three treasures(c4) are said to be deep love, frugality(c4), and not trying to be better than anyone else. Those who carry treasure(s) are good people. Love everything around you, and treat everyone equally with kindness and goodness in your heart, even if they do not treat you that way. Repay hatred with virtue(c4), and if you do not know something, realize this. You have superior virtue if you are good, enlightening, peaceful, and your life is long. Taoism is the mother and ancestor of all things,(c2) says Lao Tzu (surnamed Li). Lao Tzu is from the sixth century BC, and was born in 604 BC. He wrote the Tao Te Ching, which is made up of 5,000 words. This book can also be called the Classic of Tao and Its Virtues. This is one of the most influential books in China. The Analects of Confucius is the most influential, however. The Tao Te Ching was not actually written until after Lao Tzus life had ended, but the ideas were said to be his. The exact date that the book was written is not actually known. He said that Taoism is not something you can hear or see, but it is vague and elusive(c2). Lao Tzu ignored government, ethics, and virtue. The Tao seems to bring peace to the Taoist and his/her surroundings. Wu Wei means, taking no unnatural action. Tao does not turn against anything, but many things are accomplished. The Taoist simply follows nature, and succeeds in happiness this way. They say that the bestShow MoreRelated Taoism : The Philosophy Of Taoism1496 Words   |  6 Pageseverywhere, very few understand the long history contained within the two spiraling hemispheres. Monochrome, yet it represents the colorful and ambiguous philosophy of Taoism. The ideology of Taoism, much like the yin-yang, is very simple although very profound and intricate. The three most distinctive elements which define the worldview of Taoism are the Tao, the nature of mankind, and the Wu Wei. The Tao or â€Å"the Way† originated in China around 500-600 B.C. during the Warring States period. As the firesRead MoreTaoism951 Words   |  4 PagesTaoism Taoism is a religion as well as a philosophy that can be dated all the way back to around 500 B.C. It is one of the two dominant religions in China. Taoism is also termed â€Å"Daoism† in the more common language system, called Hanyu Pinyin, representing Chinese letters using Roman letters and is more commonly used amongst China and around the world. Like the Christian faith, they too use a sacred book, Tao Te Ching written by the great Sage, Lao Tzu as a guidance. This text has been translatedRead Moretaoism Essay1270 Words   |  6 Pagesbasis for Taoism. This religion believes that we should put away our desires of ambition to seek harmony with the forces of nature. Interestingly enough, Taoism is a very passive religion that strives for peace. One of the main symbols that are associated with this religion is the Ying Yang symbol. The yin represents the male, and the yang represents the female. 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It is a unique and interesting religion, due to the fact that many Taoists do not even consider it a religion. In many ways it can be seen as not a religion but more of a philosophy. The Taoists never claimed that the Tao ever existed. This separates them from other religions because there is no debate or battle on the Taoist doctrine. The individuality and open-mindedness has allowed theRead MoreTaoism Is Not The True Tao1982 Words   |  8 PagesWhat is Taoism? Answering that question turned out to be much harder than I thought, is it a religion, a philosophy or a way of life? The more I researched, the deeper I got into it and the deeper I got in to it, the more it made my head spin. Taoism is described as being, indescribable, undefinable, and nameless, in the words of the great sage Laozi â€Å"That which can be named is not the true Tao†. The translation for Tao is â€Å"the way†, it is the origin of everything, and it is heaven, earth and humanityRead MoreTaoism As A Philosophy Or Religion?1917 Words   |  8 Pagesreligion or philosophy comes to mind, Taoism is often unheard of and is shrouded with mystery. While this is true, its rich history and ideologies are both profound and intriguing. Taoism is one of the oldest and most ancient philosophies known to mankind. There are many theories as to just how old the customs are. Taoism is also referred to as Daoism which is a more precise way of articulating the word in English to match the pronunciation of the Chinese word. Taoism is often entitled as a philosophyRead MoreEssay about Taoism1821 Words   |  8 Pageshistory, Taoism has been one of the most influential religions of Eastern culture. This is certainly one of the most unique of all religions. Many Taoists, in fact, do not even consider it a religion; and in many ways it is not. Taoists make no c laim that the Tao exists. That is what essentially separates Taoism from the rest of the world religions: there is no heated debate or battle over Taoist doctrine; there have been no crusades to spread the religion. The very essence of Taoism is quite