Outline Gods:
• Taoism followers had a variety of male and female gods.
• Example; Yu huang ( all other gods report to him. It is said that he rules heaven as the emperor Rules earth.
• ; Yu-ch’ing, Shang-ch’ing, T’ai-ch’ing are believed to be ‘ the pure ones’. Although they are not rulers, it is said that they seek to save mankind by teaching and benevolence.
Beliefs:
• Chinese thought has always been characterized by an awareness of mans close relationship with the nature and the universe. The idea of heaven, and a cyclical view of time and the universe. Taoism and Confucianism function in similar ways. Both operate within this worldview and incorporate many of its concepts.
• Taoists believe that by understanding …show more content…
oneself, man can understand the universe.
• Pu is a symbol for a state of pure potential and perception without prejudice. In this state, Taoists believe everything is seen as it is, without preconceptions or illusion.
• The ying yang, was created by Taoism.
Rituals:
• Taoists participate in the analysis and writing of books, fortune telling, and martial arts.
• Sacrafice
• *pigs and ducks*, or fruit. Another form of sacrifice involves the burning of Joss paper, or Hell Bank Notes.
Women:
• Sex is used as a powerful force to better understand The Tao, as well as prolonging life.
• In Taoism, women could become ordained. They were equal with men for all ranks but the highest of Divine Lord.
• Taoists believe that menstrual blood is the essence of a woman, something she should nurture to increase her life span.
Books:
• The Tao Te Ching, or Daodejing, is known to be the most influential Taoist text. The title means "The Classic of the Way". It is a foundational scripture of the importance in Taoism. It was written by Lao Tzu sometime in the 3rd or 4th centuries BCE. However, the precise date that it was written is still unknown. Many people put it anywhere from the 6th century to the 3rd century BCE. It has been used as a ritual text throughout the entire history of Taoism.
• contains prose, poetry, and humor- the Zhuangzi.
Diffusion:
• Taoism never really diffused out of China, but spread throughout China. Taoists leaders believe people should come to them if they want to convert over to Taoism and therefore, you will not see any Taoist
missionaries.
• Many intellectual Chinese people are proponents and become followers of Taoism because of the deep roots in Chinese tradition, philosophy and values.
Other relegions:
• Taoism incorporated Buddhist elements during the Tang period, such as monasteries, vegetarianism, prohibition of alcohol, the doctrine of emptiness, and collecting scripture in tripartite organization.