Taoism is both a philosophy and religion originating in ancient China that focuses on living in harmony with the natural flow of the Tao or way of nature. Key Taoist teachings include wu-wei meaning non-action and going with the natural flow, as well as the complementary forces of yin and yang. While starting as a nature-centered philosophy, over time Taoism incorporated more religious rituals and superstitious practices as it evolved alongside Chinese culture.
Taoism is both a philosophy and religion originating in ancient China that focuses on living in harmony with the natural flow of the Tao or way of nature. Key Taoist teachings include wu-wei meaning non-action and going with the natural flow, as well as the complementary forces of yin and yang. While starting as a nature-centered philosophy, over time Taoism incorporated more religious rituals and superstitious practices as it evolved alongside Chinese culture.
Taoism is both a philosophy and religion originating in ancient China that focuses on living in harmony with the natural flow of the Tao or way of nature. Key Taoist teachings include wu-wei meaning non-action and going with the natural flow, as well as the complementary forces of yin and yang. While starting as a nature-centered philosophy, over time Taoism incorporated more religious rituals and superstitious practices as it evolved alongside Chinese culture.
(HUMSS 002) LEARNING COMPETENCY 1. State that “Tao is the origin of all beings whose essence is nothing.” 2. Give examples of acts showing love and respect for nature and the environment 3. Explain: The core teaching of Taoism is becoming one with ‘Tao.’ TAOISM What is Taoism? WHAT IS TAOISM?
Taoism, also known as Daoism, is
both a religion and a philosophy. It is an indigenous Chinese religion as well as an ancient nature philosophy deeply rooted in Chinese customs and worldview. It has influenced and shaped Chinese life for more than 2,000 years. As a philosophy, it focuses on understanding and practicing Tao or the “way”, while as a religion, it deals more on worship and rituals. Taoism emphasizes the need for a relationship between nature, humanity, and the divine. It is also concerned with the appropriate behavior and ways of leading and governing others. ORIGIN OF TAOISM Lao Tzu An ancient Chinese philosopher and writer who is said to have lived around the 4th or 5th B.C. The first Taoist philosopher in Ancient China Often referred to by historians as the “Father of Taoism” Said to be a contemporary of Confucius An honorific title which means “Old Master”
In religious Taoism and
traditional Chinese religions, Lao Tzu is a deity, he is worshiped under the name “Supreme Old Lord” and as one of the “Three Pure Ones.” SACRED TEXTS The two important texts from which Taoism derives its core teachings are:
1. Tao Te Ching 2. Book of Chuang Tzu 1. Tao Te Ching (“Book of the Way and Virtue)
a philosophical text on the Tao .
the first written record of Taoist philosophy and serves as its major source of teachings Tao Te Ching…
the text is believed to have been
written in the latter part of the Zhou dynasty, during the height of social and political unrest and moral decay in China consists of 81 short chapters of verses. 2. Book of Chuang Tzu Said to have been compiled during the period of the Warring States when the classical civilization of China was declining because of civil wars. Comprised of a collection of stories, essays, and monologues explaining the teachings of the Tao Te Ching. Universal Oneness, Wholeness, and Balance Taoism views reality in a holistic manner. In essence, everything in reality is one and the same. The concept of universal oneness that forms the core of Taoist philosophy is embodied in the symbols of the Yin and the Yang. Yin translates to “dark” or “shaded”, while Yang translates to “bright” or “sunny”. The alternating black and white colors in the circle represents the duality and opposition existing in natural phenomena. Following Nature Being in harmony with nature is the way to achieve oneness with the Tao. That is, in following one’s nature, one follows the Tao. Following one’s nature means one obeys the natural law and the order of the universe. Following Nature…
This implies respect for one’s own
nature, and that of other beings. Respect for one’s nature is exemplified by avoiding acts such as indulging in sensual and worldly pleasures. Law of Reversion Reversion refers to the movement of the Tao and the natural order in which anything that reaches its highest point returns back to its starting point, creating a continuous cycle of Law of Reversion...
This is in relation to the belief that
since everything originates from the Tao, everything eventually returns to its source. Life and death are part of this continuous transformation from nothing into something and back to nothing. Wu-Wei The core teaching of Taoism which is literally means “non-action” or “without action.” However, its traditional rendering is incorrect as Taoism is not a philosophy of “doing nothing” rather, Wu-wei means to act naturally and let all things run its natural course. Wu-Wei… The concept of inaction refers to the absence of acts that are contrary to nature and the practice of a spontaneous and natural response to the events and course of life. Wu-wei is allowing the cosmic energy or the power of the Tao within to move and act through one’s being. Wu-Wei… Politically, this is used to advise the rulers not to use force in influencing and governing the people.
Superstitious Practices Taoism slowly degenerated into a system of superstition and idolatry as Buddhism was making its way to Chinese religious life. Taoism promoted itself as a religion with Chinese roots. Here are some of the beliefs and superstitions:
Birth is a time for casting
a horoscope. A month after birth, a naming ceremony is held. What is Feng Shui? Generally, Feng Shui is translated as “wind and water” which are the natural elements that shape the landscape. According to the book Religion 101, the Feng Shui expert can advise on how to get the best results in a home or office by establishing the most advantageous alignment of space and furnishings to allow the most positive and harmonious flow of chi (energy). Thank you for listening! Performance Task: POSTLOGAN GUIDE QUESTION: If you have given a chance to be an Ambassador of the Youth, what will you do to contribute to dealing with the protection of our nature. Create a postlogan showing your thoughts and give a brief explanation of your insights. You will be graded based on the rubrics given.