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Taoism or Daoism is a diverse
philosophical and religious tradition indigenous to China, emphasizing harmony
with the Tao. With a range of meaning in Chinese philosophy, translations of Tao
include 'way', 'road', 'path', or 'technique', generally understood in the
Taoist sense as an enigmatic process of transformation ultimately underlying
reality. Taoist thought has informed the development of various practices within
the Taoist tradition and beyond, including forms of meditation, astrology,
qigong, feng shui, and internal alchemy. A common goal of Taoist practice is
self-cultivation, a deeper appreciation of the Tao, and more harmonious
existence. Taoist ethics vary, but generally emphasize such virtues as
effortless action, naturalness, simplicity, and the three treasures of
compassion, frugality, and humility.
The core of Taoist thought crystallized during the early Warring States
period; 450 – 300 BC, during which the epigrammatic Tao Te Ching and the
anecdotal Zhuangzi, widely regarded as the fundamental texts of Taoist
philosophy, were largely composed. They form the core of a body of Taoist
writings accrued over the following centuries, which was assembled by monks into
the Daozang canon starting in the 5th century CE.
Early Taoism drew upon diverse influences, including the Shang and Zhou state
religions, Naturalism, Mohism, Confucianism, various Legalist theories, as well
as the I Ching and Spring and Autumn Annals.
Although Taoism and
Confucianism developed significant differences,
they are not seen as mutually incompatible or exclusive. The relationship
between Taoism and
Buddhism upon the latter's introduction to China is
characterized as one of mutual influence, with long-running discourses shared
between Taoists and Buddhists; the distinct Mahayana tradition of Zen that
emerged during the Tang dynasty; 607–917 incorporates many ideas from Taoism.
My Icon: A calabash with Yin & Yang |