Taoism
Art of keeping simple
The ideal of Taoism is that of a farmer, seeking harmony with the patterns
of nature, living openly and without any artifice, in touch with nature's
rhythms. It is believed that his day-to-day experience will lead directly
to the Tao.
1) As to dwelling, live near the ground 2) As to thinking, hold to that which is simple 3) As to conflict, pursue fairness and generosity 4) As to governance, do not attempt to control 5) As to work, do that which you like doing 6) As to family life, be fully present
Taoism elevates principles of non-control and non-interference to high
importance. True inaction, in the Taoist sense, is the most efficient
possible action, the most spontaneous possible action and the most creative
possible action. Taoism is indirectly linked to Buddhism and some portions
are derived from Mahayana Buddhism.
Taoism in the
20th century is considered a philosophy rather than a religion, though a
separate Taoist religion did exist in Ancient China around 3rd century B.C..
That religion is often regarded today in a pejorative light. In traditional
Chinese thought, Taoism only second to Confucianism
in terms of importance.
Lao Tzu meets the
Guardian of the Gate of Tibet
Taoism originated from the man "Lao Tzu" (ca. 500 B.C.) who wrote the book
"Tao Te Ching". The writings of another brilliant philosopher Chuang Tzu
also became very important in the Taoist practice. They together created
the book "Book of Changes" in which the main portion consists of the sayings
and writings of Tao Te Ching.
