DAOISM

OR
“THE WAY”
Daoism/Taoism is a religion and an philosophy that
was developed by Lao Tzu (Laozi) in ancient China
that arose in the 6th Centure B.C.E. Daoism is a
religion that focuses on the significance of the
“Dao” (The Way). Which is connected by Lao Tzu
book “Dao De Jing” (The Way of the Universe), 500
B.C.E.
 LAO
TZU
According to Su-ma Chien's Shi-chi, or Records of the Historian, Lao Tzu worked as a
librarian. For many years, he was the keeper at Chou's Royal Library. Eventually, he grew
tired of his job as the state librarian and decided to retire. Some claim that he retired due
to the growing corruption in China. He decided to travel to the far west of China. Carried
by an ox and was about to cross the western border when the gatekeeper, Kwan Yin,
stopped him. It's unfortunate that Kwan Yin recognized Lao Tzu as an old scholar and
encouraged him to write down his teachings; otherwise, he would not let Lao Tzu pass
through the border. Lao Tzu obliged by writing down his teachings over two days,
resulting in the book Daodejing. After crossing the border and leaving China, no one
knows what happened to Lao Tzu. Some speculated that he may have preached in other
countries, such as India, before returning to China. Some claim that he did not teach but
lived a life. He lived a peaceful and contented life until his death at the age of 87.
Confucius admired Lao Tzu due to his legendary status. There is an interesting story
about Lao Tzu having a philosophical conversation with the then-young Confucius, who
was visiting the library to research ancient king rituals and ceremonies. Confucius is said
to have been very impressed with Lao Tzu’s advice that he later told his disciples, “Today,
when I met Lao Tzu, it was like meeting a dragon.
DAOIST SACRED
TEXT
DAODEJING
The Daodejing, which translates to "The Way and Its Power,"
is a revered text in Daoism. It delves into the essence and
significance of the Dao, exploring its nature, how it can be
understood, its ineffability, and its diverse manifestations
across different aspects of existence. Despite its brevity,
comprising approximately 5000 Chinese characters, the text
employs poetic language to convey its profound insights.

Chuang Tzu, a prominent Chinese philosopher, is the namesake of a revered Daoist text
called "Chuang Tzu." This book serves to elaborate on the teachings of Lao Tzu,
making them more accessible to ordinary individuals. Chuang Tzu conveys his
philosophy primarily through short stories rich in symbolism, bringing abstract Daoist
concepts to life through vivid illustrations. This approach allows readers to grasp the
profound ideas associated with Daoism in a tangible way.
“Watch your thought, they become your ACTION
Watch your Actions, they become your HABITS
Watch you Habits, they become your CHARACTER
Watch your Character, it becomes your DESTINY”
- Lao Tzu
DAOIST CENTRAL BELIEFS | DAO AND OTHER RELATED CONCEPTS
The Dao, translated as "The Way," is the source of the universe
and the highest reality, transcending description or
conceptualization. It is the principle guiding the flow and change
of nature, aiming for stability and harmony among opposing
forces. This harmony is embodied in the concept of Yin and
Yang, representing the interconnectedness and balance within
the natural order.

A. YIN AND YANG

The Dao flows peacefully, fostering harmony among opposing
forces in nature, as exemplified by the principle of yin and yang.
Yin represents darkness, while yang represents light, and they
are complementary forces symbolized by intertwined figures.
Within each figure, a small dot of the opposite color symbolizes
the seed of its counterpart, indicating a continuous cycle of
transformation. This principle, also known as the Law of
Reversion, maintains balance and harmony as yin and yang
forces interchange endlessly.
B. WU-WEI
The Dao operates independently of human influence or desires and
will manifest regardless of human actions. Humans can choose to
either align with or resist the natural flow of the Dao, each choice
carrying consequences. Interfering with the Dao leads to conflict
and chaos, while living in harmony with it brings peace and order.
This aligns with the Daoist concept of Wu-wei, which entails
detached actions and living in accord with nature's flow, without
resistance. Wu-wei involves effortless and spontaneous action, akin
to the instinctual behavior of plants and animals. Acting in harmony
with nature also entails respecting one's own inherent nature.

C. THE THREE TREASURES OF DAOISM

Connected to the concept of wu-wei are the three major virtues in
Daoism, known as the Three Treasures. These virtues serve as
guiding principles for individuals seeking to align themselves with
the natural flow of the Dao.
 THE THREE TREASURES OF DAOISM
Compassion (“Ci”) Simplicity (“Jian”) Humility (Bugan wei
tianxia xian)

01 02 03
It entails a dedication to abstain from excessive It involves steering clear of a competitive existence
Compassion is the capacity and readiness
indulgence and lavishness, thereby fostering a centered on being the foremost, recognizing it as a futile
to resonate with the pain and struggles of
disposition towards generosity. Those who practice expenditure of energy. Choosing to remain humble and
others, stemming from the realization that
moderation and simplicity with their resources are not rush forward allows for the necessary time for
all entities are interconnected and part of
better equipped to offer support when it is truly personal growth and development, ensuring one's
a unified whole.
required. This lifestyle is characterized by modesty, abilities fully mature and yield fruitful results.
wholesomeness, and a lack of materialistic pursuits.

These virtues are complementary to wu-wei as an effortless action. Having compassion, living a simple life, and
humbling oneself helps in living according to the natural flow of things.
 DAOIST PRACTICES
A. PURITY AND DIET
Daoists prioritize maintaining bodily purity by avoiding specific
activities and foods associated with negative traits such as
greed, lust, pride, and dishonesty. They abstain from alcohol,
meat, grains, and beans to uphold purity. Additionally, they
adhere to the Yin and Yang Diet, which involves consuming Yang
foods like eggs and beef to address cold-related issues and
improve circulation, while Yin foods like tofu and cucumbers are
consumed to promote calmness and detoxification. This dietary
practice aligns with the Daoist principle of balance and harmony.

B. MEDITATION
It encompasses cultivating mental stillness and deepening mindfulness
to gain direct insight into the Dao, transcending the limitations imposed
by conventional categorizations of the world. One form of Daoist
meditation, known as inner chemical meditation, can be practiced in
various postures such as sitting cross-legged, in a chair, lying down, or
even while walking. This meditation may involve techniques such as
chanting mantras like "om," concentrating on a specific object, or simply
focusing on the rhythm of one's breath. Through these practices,
individuals seek to quiet the mind and attain a profound connection with
the Dao.
C. QUI GONG
It refers to Daoist wellness activity or exercise which
cultivates vital life-force. It can be done through doing
postures, meditation, and breathing. The movements are
simple and adaptive

D. TAICHI
It encompasses cultivating mental stillness and deepening mindfulness
to gain direct insight into the Dao, transcending the limitations imposed
by conventional categorizations of the world. One form of Daoist
meditation, known as inner chemical meditation, can be practiced in
various postures such as sitting cross-legged, in a chair, lying down, or
even while walking. This meditation may involve techniques such as
chanting mantras like "om," concentrating on a specific object, or simply
focusing on the rhythm of one's breath. Through these practices,
individuals seek to quiet the mind and attain a profound connection with
the Dao.
 E. FENG SHUI

Feng Shui is a holistic system aimed at aligning individuals with

their environment, emphasizing harmony between people and
their surroundings. This practice involves selecting or arranging
structures and sites to resonate with the spiritual energies present
in the environment. One common application of Feng Shui is the
use of the bagua, a symbolic diagram used to analyze and
enhance the energy flow within a space. By applying Feng Shui
principles, practitioners seek to optimize the balance and vitality
of the spaces they inhabit, promoting well-being, prosperity, and
harmony in their lives.
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