Calvin Young
REL 133
April 21, 2015
Dr. William Sunday
University of Phoenix Material
Daoism Worksheet
Complete the following questions in detail. Answer each question with a 1- or 2-paragraph response that includes a reference citation. Make use of Experiencing the World’s Religions and other sources in your research as you complete the questions.
1. Describe the principles of yang and yin.
As described in Molloy’s Experiencing the World’s Religions (2013), the primary principle of Yin and Yang is that they are the natural duality of the world. Daoists believe that all of nature exists as pairs; opposite but complementary. The Daoist belief is not for the Yin overpower the Yang, or Yang beat the Yin, but that balance …show more content…
The main scripture in Daoism is the Daodejing (Tao Te Ching). What is the history and importance of this text for the tradition?
The Daodejing is believed to have been written by the legendary origin of Daoism, Laozi, who is worshipped as divine by many Daoists. According to legend described by Molloy (2013), Laozi was born of a virginal conception and was born old, his name meaning “Old Child”. Laozi is said to have written the Daodejing after being stopped at the western most border of China and being told that he must write down his teachings before …show more content…
The two ways are in paintings. Some Chinese paintings focus on a small natural subject, just as a bird or plant, close up. This technique is used to draw into emphasis to the beauty of the small and often overlooked. Another painting technique used to emphasise teachings of Daoism is the use of empty space in long distance landscapes. The intent is to make the scene continue to the infinite. Within Chinese poetry, a common subject matter is simplicity, and focusing on harmony with nature. Also, as Daodejing and Zhuangzi contained a significant amount of poetry, poets after have used poetry to examine and develop the theme and messages contained within the books. Finally, Daoism has had a direct influence on the art of Chinese garden design. The house represents the yang, with emphasis on the straight lines and square designs. For this reason, Chinese gardens are designed as the complementary yin, focusing on circular designs, curved lines, and naturally flowing