On a separate page Religion checklist Buddhism Daoism

• On a separate page: – Religion checklist: Buddhism Daoism

AIM: Is Taoism a real religion? DO NOW: (in your notebook) What do you think is the meaning of this symbol?

You all know a little about Taoism already…. • Star Wars!

Not sure when he died. [604 B. C. E. - ? ] His name means “Old Master”

The basic text of Daoism. In Chinese, it means The Classic in the Way and Its Power. “Those who speak know nothing: Those who know are silent. ” These words were spoken by Lao Zi. wrote a book, Of five thousand words?

1. Dao [Tao] It is a force that flows through all life. (Think Yoda and the Force) 2. A believer’s goal is to become one with Dao; one with nature. 3. Wu wei --> “Let nature take its course. ” --> “The art of doing nothing. ” --> “Go with the flow!” 4. Man is unhappy because he lives by man-made laws, customs, & traditions that are contrary to the “ways of nature. ”

CREATION Taoists believe that there is no one creator In the beginning, there was only chaos, or a void, called Wuji.

Then from the void (Wuji) the universe came into being.

Then came the energies of yin and yang which combined to create what is called Qi

The concept of the joining of yin and yang is often compared to the big bang theory.

To escape the “social, political, & cultural traps” of life, one must escape by: 1. Rejecting formal knowledge and learning. (Such as everything you’re doing right now) 2. Relying on instincts. 3. Ignoring political and social laws.

Feminine Passive Darkness Cold Weak Earth; Moon Masculine Active Light Warmth Strong Heaven; Sun

How is a person to live in a world dominated by suffering? ? Buddhism --> 8 Fold Path Taoism --> Freedom for individuals and less gov’t.

Now it’s your turn! • Use your religion checklist • Decide if Taoism is a real religion • Then use the Venn Diagram to Compare/Contrast Buddhism and Taoism

Homework: • Journal #35: – 1. Complete the religion checklist (graphic organizer) – 2. Is Daoism really a religion? ( 1 paragraph)