Taoism facts
Taoism is one of the most followed religions in China. It is more of a philosophy than a religion, which emphasizes on the way of life. It teaches its followers to go with the flow of life and to make it worth by just focusing on being one's own self, staying true to one’s nature and not trying to be something which one is not. It began somewhere around the end of the 4th century under the guidance of Laozi. The word "Tao" in Taoism means "the flow of universe". It preaches its followers not to come under the influence of any selfish thought, and try to keep one's own self free from any kind of desire, to lead a peaceful life.
Here are some Taoism facts which will help one know more about this religion and its philosophical values:
- In China, majorly five religions are practised including Taoism, Islam, Buddhism, Catholicism, and Protestantism. Taoism is amongst one of the most practised and followed religion.
- Another interesting Taoism fact is that, in some places in China, Taoism is also known as Daoism.
- It works on the philosophy of keeping trust in one's own self and instincts. The main guiding force on the path of finding truth is one's own inner guts.
- The reason for being one of the most followed religions is that it allows its followers to adapt to the changing world and modern ways of living, rather than fighting against them.
- Violence is something which Taoism never promotes, however they consider it as a last resort to obtain anything. It believes in peace and harmony.
- It teaches its followers to stay away from hatred and intolerance. They preach to live with harmony and compassion and also to maintain an environment that is conducive for everyone to live in.
- The teachings of Taoism can help reduce stress from life, which is one of the most prominent reasons for illness and poor health.
- Fengshui, fortune telling, and meditation are part of Taoism.
- The three major treasures of Taoism facts are doing charity, thinking of others before one's own self and being thrifty by nature.
- Taoism promotes only those herbs and minerals that promote healthy and longer life, and are often termed as wai-dan.
- Lying, killing and stealing are malpractices according to Taoism; it does not have any place for these things in its philosophy. Rather it encourages and focuses on charity and being helpful towards needy people.
- Taoism is a philosophy and does not include worshipping ‘TAO'. However, it has some deities being worshipped in temples and every deity has some duties associated with it.
- Martial arts, yoga, breathing exercises, meditation, and massages are some physical practices that Taoism promotes.
To know more about Taoism facts and its philosophy, one can go through three major ancient writings of Taoism. These writings include Tao Te Ching by Laozi, by Lieh Tzu and the last one by Chuang Tzu. All these three ancient writings have everything to help readers gain insight into the philosophies and teachings of this religion.
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