Taoism Religion in Chinese Culture
What is Taoism or Daoism Religion?
The Ultimate Purpose - Pursuing the Dao.
Sacred Places of Taoism in China.
Three Most Supreme Immortals of the Taoism Religion — San Qing
What is Taoism or Daoism Religion?
Taoism Religion, also named Daoism Religion or Daojiao, is a Chinese religion that evolved from Taoism Philosophy and ancient Chinese Mythology.
It respects Lao Zi (or Lao Tzu) as the saint and deity and his masterpiece Dao De Jing (or Tao Te Ching) as an essential classic.
It consists of a complete system of magical forces and deities and a series of outstanding scientific achievements.
Taoism Religion is the most mysterious and secular religion in traditional culture, which sounds far away but has indeed integrated into and profoundly influenced Chinese people’s daily lives for thousands of years.
Silk Manuscript of Dao De Jing (Tao Te Ching), Unearthed From Tomb of Prime Minister Li Cang (? — 185 BC) — Mawangdui Museum of Hunan Province
Ultimate Purpose — Pursuing the Dao
Taoist believers dedicate their lives to understanding the Dao or Tao, the law of nature, and the rule of the universe.
Having apotheosized the Taoism Philosophy and based on ancient Chinese Mythology, an entire immortal system is constructed.
Moreover, in Taoism Religion, all human beings can become immortals, man or woman, noble or humble.
Therefore, the primary purposes of Taoist priests are to pursue the Dao in the current world and hopefully to become immortals through cultivation.
Chinese Character "Dao" Written by Emperor Li Longji (685 — 762)
Main Characteristics of Religion of Taoism
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It is possible for everyone to become immortal through cultivation, hence the polytheistic system.
Everyone can choose their favorite deity to believe in; there are no absolute rules, regulations, or ceremonies.
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For most people, the best means to pursue the Dao is to practice in the secular world.
To be a good daughter or son, a lovely partner, a responsible employee, etc.
Finding and completing oneself is the foremost thing to do.
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Everyone could have their understanding of the Dao.
Part of Murals of Taoism Deities on Walls inside the Yongle Palace (Built in 1247 — 1358) in Shanxi Province