 Taoism
is considered as an entity that defies definition, which can be properly
understood only by experience. The most approximate meaning with respect to
English language is “the way” or “the path”.
Taoism corresponds to a power, which envelops, surrounds and flows
through all things, living and non-living. In simple words, it can be
considered as a way of spiritual living.
Origin
Taoism
evolved from both a philosophical tradition linked with the Tao-te Ching
(Lao-tzu); Chuang-tzu,Lieh-tzu and other texts, and a Taoist religious
tradition. (Tao-chiao). This religious tradition has got an organized
doctrine, formalized cultic activity and institutional leadership. Both
these traditions are well connected though there are some conflicting ideas.
By tradition, Taoism is accredited
to three sources- Yellow emperor, Lao Tse’s Tao Teh
Ching and Chuang Tse’s
untitled work. Many consider ‘I Ching’, the book of changes as the
original source of Taoism.
Philosophical
attributes
Like
most of the eastern philosophies Taoism too is a combination of inward
introspection and external observation. The nodal point of Tao is in the art
of ‘wu wei’ (action through inaction). This indeed matches with Indian
yogic tradition as well. This does not mean to remain idle! It is the art of
minimizing action, particularly violent action. Planning or thinking about
one’s action before implementing it is another aspect of Tao. But a Taoist
is not a pacifist to the core. There is a scope for
military action, when he
feels it is inevitable. If initiated to violence he will fight until the
goal is achieved. On
accomplishing the goal, saddened at the usage of the ultimate tool and
bloodshed, he would then move on with the resolve to foresee better into the
future.
The
early discourses of Taoism envisaged the synchronization of Tao and nature
as the solution for human problems, and there by considered it as a
spiritual approach to living. Taoists preached to live harmoniously with
nature empowered with simplicity as a vital requisite for a pleasant
environment. Different techniques were used by the sages to concentrate the
mind to inner spiritual strength and set aside concerns with external
thoughts relating to monetary rewards, fame and praise. Body health was also
given due importance. Herbal medicine, macrobiotic cooking and certain
systems of gymnastics and massage were used to keep the body strong and
youthful.
Taoists
consider various Gods as the manifestation of one Dao. A Taoist priest has
been ritually trained, and through the process of meditation and
visualization he harmonizes and reunites with one Dao. The uniqueness of
this way of life with other religions is the absence of a personified deity.
Hence they don’t pray as Christians do.
Some
important pronouncements
The
following words spells out the close relationship attached with Taoism and
the way.
“Humans
model themselves on earth,
Earth on heaven,
Heaven on the Way,
and the way on that which is naturally so.”
-- Laozi (Lao Tzu)
Daodejing (Tao te ching), #251
"I
am good to the man who is good to me, likewise, I am also good to the bad
man."
-Tao
Te Ching
 The
Yin Yang symbol:
This
Taoist symbol represents the balance of opposites in the universe. When they
are equally present, all is calm. When the other outweighs one, there is
confusion and disarray. The two swirling shapes inside the symbol denote
change, which is the only constant entity in the universe.
According to one saying, ‘yin’ (darker side) represents the
breath that formed the earth; ‘yang’ (the bright part) denotes the
breath that formed the heavens. Another view is that ‘yin’ represents
the feminine aspects while ‘yang’ represents masculine part. Generally
speaking yin and yan can symbolize any two opposing forces in nature.
Tai
Chi
Traditional
Chinese medicine teaches that illness is caused by blockages or lack of
balance in body’s ‘chi’ (intrinsic energy). Tai Chis rhythmic massage
balances this energy flow. This effectuates the stimulation of central
nervous system and lowers blood pressure.
Ever
since the emergence of Taoism it has influenced the practitioners in coping
with the vagaries of life with a high spiritual inclination.
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