Chinese Religion China was Polytheistic Three belief systems

Chinese Religion • • • China was Polytheistic Three belief systems now dominate: Taoism Confucionism Buddhism

Lao Tzu • The founder of Taoism • Lived in the 500 s BC (like Zoroaster, Buddha, Mahavira, Confusius. . . ) • Librarian at Imperial archives • Wrote the “Tao Te Ching” which discusses “the way”

What is the Tao? • A force that exists in all things, runs through all things • Creates harmony in the universe between the Yin and Yang • Means “the way” • Tao has been compared to water

Taoism • Yin – dark • Yang - light • Represents duality in the universe: • Masculine – feminine • Day-Night • Creation-destruction

Celestial Masters • Leaders of Taoism, (similar to the Dalai Llama in Tibet) • First celestial master was Chang Tao-Ling ~100 AD • The 63 rd celestial master resides in Taiwan

Wu Wei • Means “not acting” • Act in accordance with nature, or do not act at all • Let nature take its course • Do not manipulate others • Effortlessness is the goal

Longevity • Taoism is concerned about physical health and longevity • Quest for immortality was part of early Taoism

Tai Chi • Tai Chi – like slow motion martial arts, (goal is meditative, continuous movement) • Harmonizes the flow of Chi – energy, through the body. • Has a calming effect, eliminates stress

Acupuncture • Chinese medicine seeks balance in the body’s Chi • Needles at pressure points relieve blockages in the flow of Chi

Feng Shui • Architecture and interior design to maximize the flow of Chi • Doors, windows, stairs, etc. , are placed in accordance with the Tao, harmony

Taoism under Communism • After 1949, Mao tried to stamp out all religion • Many Chinese fled and took their beliefs with them • Taiwan is now the center of Taoism; the celestial master lives there (in exile)

Short Film • Around the World in 80 Faiths • Taoism – 8: 56