Learn More About Taoism
Stay connected with nature.
About Taoism
Founders/Origin
Lao Tzu wrote the main book on Taoism. Was well known in the eighth century C.E. as part of the Tang dynasty. Tao Te Ching (The Way and It's Power)
Worship
They live in harmony with nature and never try to start something that can lead to aggression. If someone has acted in an aggressive way they believe that they can restore peace in them. They don’t worship deities but respect Laozi.
Beliefs
All living creatures should live in a state of harmony with the world and the energy in it. Taoist books show guidelines for behavior and spiritual ways of living in sync with the world's energy. The energy is not believed to be a god.
Places of Worship
Taoist Temple, other names are Gong, Guan, or Miao. Many temples are located throughout China. Over 5,000 temples in China. Chinese characters are carved into windows, doors, eaves, and girders. Fu (blessing), Shou (longevity), and Ji (auspicious). Cypress and bamboo represent friendship and honor. The tortoise and dragon represent long life and warding off of evil. Most are framed with wood which is believed to help with health. The temples are usually built on mountainsides or in a natural setting.
Rites of Passage
A popular Taoist ritual is the Chiao (jiao). This is made up of several different rituals and is used as a rite of cosmic renewal. An easier way of doing this is by bringing an offering for the local deities.
Holy Places
Mount Laojun in Luoyan, Henan Province, China is a sacred place that Taoists embark on a trip every year to see this site.