Taoism: An Introduction to Taoist Philosophy and Principles

By Theo Lalvani

Taoism is an ancient philosophical concept originating from 500 B.C.E. in China. According to a widely accepted myth, it was created by a natural philosopher named Lao Tzu, who believed in keeping harmony in all areas of life. Due to its reverence for doing what comes naturally, Taoism became very popular in the region very soon after its emergence. In modern times, dictated by rigid societal norms, unrealistic expectations, and economic, cultural, and other pressures, Taoism can provide much-needed relief. Regardless of the reasons for your interest, this book offers a comprehensive explanation of Taoism as a religion, including its philosophical concepts and principles. You'll also learn how this religion differs from Buddhism and Confucianism.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Creek Ridge Publishing
• Release date: Feb 16, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215785331

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Taoism

An Introduction to Taoist Philosophy and Principles

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Table of Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1: What Is Taoism?

The History of Taoism

Taoism Terminology

Basic Principles and Philosophy Associated with Taoism

Differences between Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism

Chapter 2: Core Principles of Taoism

Taoist Principles

Taoism and Gods

Chapter 3: Philosophy of Taoism

The Taoist View of Energy

Qi and Health

Taoist Laws of Nature

The 5 Elements Theory

Transformation

Yin and Yang

Chapter 4: Schools of Taoism

The Quanzhen School

The Zhengyi School

Quanzhen Taoism vs. Zhengyi Taoism

Chapter 5: Myths and Misconceptions

Myth #1 Chinese Medicine Is Taoist

Myth #2 Taoism Consists of Two Forms

Myth #3 Philosophical Taoism Is the Original Form of Taoism

Myth #4 Taoists Lead a Solitary Life

Myth #5 Lao Tzu Is the Author of Tao Te Ching

Myth #6 Lao Tzu Is the Founder of Taoism

Myth #7 Yin Yoga Is Taoist

Myth #8 Daojia Is Associated with Western Beliefs

Myth #9 Taoism Came to Be after a Revelation

Myth #10 Yin Yang Are Taoist Concepts

Myth #11 Feng Shui Is a Taoist Concept

Myth #12 Qigong Is a Taoist Practice

Myth #13 Sexual Yoga Is a Taoist Practice

Myth #14 Tai Chi Is a Taoist Tradition

Chapter 6: Practices of Taoism

Taoist Meditation

Emptiness Meditation

Breathing Meditation

Neiguan

Cultivate Your Life Energy

Taoist Rituals

Conclusion

References

Introduction

Taoism is an ancient philosophical concept originating from 500 B.C.E. in China. According to a widely accepted myth, it was created by a natural philosopher named Lao Tzu, who believed in keeping harmony in all areas of life. Due to its reverence for doing what comes naturally, Taoism became very popular in the region very soon after its emergence. In modern times, dictated by rigid societal norms, unrealistic expectations, and economic, cultural, and other pressures, Taoism can provide much-needed relief. Regardless of the reasons for your interest, this book offers a comprehensive explanation of Taoism as a religion, including its philosophical concepts and principles. You’ll also learn how this religion differs from Buddhism and Confucianism.

The chapter dedicated to the core principles of Taoism details how the religion emphasizes natural behavior and accepting one’s life course, regardless of its challenges. You’ll be introduced to rituals and ceremonies Taoists use to worship their deities and express gratitude for their lives. Next, you’ll be given a thorough yet beginner-friendly insight into the natural laws, the principle of energy transformation, and other significant philosophical concepts applied by Taoists. As you’ll learn by reading the book, the concepts of yin and yang play a crucial role in this religion.

While all Taoists emphasize the importance of embracing naturality, not all of them follow the same school of thought. They’re two primary schools to choose from, Quanzhen Taoism and Zhengyi Taoism. The relevant