Daoism

Daoism (Taoism) Daoism is an ancient combination of religion, philosophy, and folk beliefs, including ritual healing. It began more than 2,000 years ago in China.

The Dao is beyond easy definition. According to its teachings, the wise person must strive to put him- or herself at one with the Dao or the “Way.” It is not just the correct path in life, but the spirit and animating force that underlies all things in the universe. A Daoist accepts the world as it is, and is taught to avoid struggling against or being angry at its imperfections. This is a perspective opposite to Western thought, which sees the world as something to be molded and changed. Instead, Daoists adopt an easygoing attitude towards the world; understanding the unseen forces is considered more important than changing the physical world. The Dao’s emphasis on the written word, literature, alchemy, and medicine have had dramatic effects on the countries that practice or have been influenced by Daoism, helping to advance literacy and the study of science.

Daoism makes great use of magic or unworldly experiences. Some Dao teachers experience ecstasies, which are trancelike states during which they learn truths. Historically, mysticism (spiritual or otherworldly forces) was an important part of Daoism, although from time to time the purely philosophical elements have been emphasized. Daoist priests had the duty of performing rituals, to cure illness, which was believed to be punishment inflicted by demons for sins the victim had committed. Priests conducted ceremonies that included petitions or prayers sent to the gods of the universe. They also presided over elaborate, weeklong, community renewal festivals inside their temples.

The Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu, credited with writing the Dao-de Jing (The Book of the Way is one translation of the title), is traditionally said to be the founder of Daoism. Whether Lao Tzu actually existed and whether Daoism had already been established are matters of considerable debate among scholars. Daoism’s ideas had a direct and subtle influence on Buddhism, both in China and Japan. Daoist philosophy came to Japan directly through teachers and folk practitioners called Onmyō-Ji. These fortune-tellers were often employed to study omens and offer advice about when the time might be good for different activities, such as getting married.

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SOURCE:

Japanese Mythology A-Z – Second Edition – Written by Jeremy Roberts – Copyright © 2010 by Jim DeFelice – Publisher : Chelsea House Publishers

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