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Comparing Taoism And Islam

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Comparing Taoism And Islam
Taoism is a far eastern religion that teaches living in harmony with the way of nature. Tao literally translates to "The Way." Taoism complements Confucianism, Buddhism, and Shinto religions. In contrast, Islam is a middle eastern religion that lives by their sacred text the Qur'an. The role of the Qur'an can be comparable to Jesus Christ's role to Christianity. The two religions concept on God differs greatly. Those who practice Taoism do not believe in God at all. Taoism believes in two great masters: Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu. Lao Tzu is referred as "old master" and was conceived by a shooting star. Chuang Tzu is the supposed second founder of Taoism. Chuang Tzu wrote inspiring texts of humor that taught lessons. They believe an unseen force created the universe not God. It is beyond the reach of intellectual force. On the other hand, those who practice Islam believe in God. They believe He is the creator and they mention His name in prayer. The God they refer to, however, is Allah, The One God.

Taoism's way of prayer consists of living in accord with the Tao Te Ching. Tao Te Ching literally means "the book of the Way and its power." They say that Tao can never be completely explained in words. Their prayers include techniques of meditation, breathing exercises, and the eating of certain herbs and minerals. Islam prayer consists of following the Qur'an. It is believed to be the sacred words of Allah revealed to Muhammad. The book is revered as a miracle of God. Islam believes in the Five Pillars. These Pillars include: Confession of faith, Prayer (five times a day and during Ramadan), Fasting, Wealth Sharing, and a Pilgrimage.

Taoists ideal holy person is balanced. This balanced person has both the yin and yang characteristics. Yin being the feminine and passive, while the Yang is the masculine and active. You must live in accord with the Tao. This includes Humility and non-competition, naturalness, and passive. Islam's believe to be the ideal holy person, you
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