1. Taoism

2. History of Taoism The founder of Taoism is believed to be Lao-Tse
He was searching for a way to avoid the constant warfare and conflicts that disrupted society
The result was the book Tao-te-Ching

3. History of Taoism
Taoism started as a combination of psychology and philsophy
Evolved into a religion about 440 CE
Lao-Tse became popularly worshipped as a deity
Became one of the three great religions of China

4. Taoist Beliefs and Practices
Tao is the first cause of the universe. It is the force that flows through all life
Each believers goal is to become one with the Tao
Time is cyclical, not linear as in Western thinking

5. Taoist Beliefs and Practices
Yin (dark side) is the breath that formed the earth
Yang (light side) is the breath that formed the heavens
Yin and Yang symbolize pairs of opposites
Intervention of human civilization upsets the balances of Yin and Yang

6. Taoist Beliefs and Practices
“The Tao surrounds everyone and therefore everyone must listen to find enlightenment”
Taoists generally have an interest in promoting health and vitality
Five main organs and orifices correspond to the five parts of the sky

7. Taoist Beliefs and Practices
The Five Parts of the Sky
Water
Fire
Wood
Metal
Earth

8. Taoist Beliefs and Practices
Each person must nurture the Ch’i (air, breath) that has been given to them
Development of virtue is one’s chief task.
The Three Jewels to be sought are compassion, moderation and humility

9. Taoist Beliefs and Practices
Taoists follow the art of “wu wei”, which is to let nature take its course
One should plan in advance and consider each action before making it
Taoists are kind to individuals, because such an action tends to be reciprocated

10. Tai Chi
Long history of involvement by Taoists in various exercise and movement techniques.
Tai Chi is believed to balance the flow of energy in the body

11. Taoist Texts
Tao-te-Ching (“The Way of the Power” or “The Book of the War”) is believed to have been written by Lao-Tse.
It described the nature of life, the way to peace and how a ruler should lead his life
Chuang-tzu (named after its author) contains additional teachings