Tao Worldview

Nature and Deity

There are universal forces of nature – yin and yang. Through creative tension with each other they keep the world spinning and moving. (Popular Taoism has thousands of gods, but no single supreme deity.)

Understanding of Beginnings

Creation as an event is not of great importance. There are various stories. In essence, the twin forces of yin and yang were created from nothing rather than by any being, and from these twin forces come all life.

Conception of Time

There are elements of both the linear and the cyclical. There is no end to the world, just a personal journey, either to better and better rebirths, or into immortality.

Mortality (and Afterlife)

At death, the soul is judged by up to ten different gods of Hell, is purified by punishment then reborn again. Certain schools believe death is avoidable. By practicing special meditations or eating certain things, one can make the body immortal so that the person lives forever.

Venerated Literature

There are over 4000 books in the Taoist Canon, from the fourth century BCE to the 14th century CE. Each school has its own favorites and many look back to the Tao Te Ching (translated, “The Way and Its Power”) of Lao Tzu, compiled circa fourth century BCE, as their initial source of inspiration.

Prophets and Founders

There have been various figures, ranging from mythical emperors to semi-historical figures such as Lao Tzu (5th century BCE) and Chang Tao Ling (2nd century CE), who founded popular Taoism.

Rites of Birth and Death

Horoscopes are cast at birth. After a month a naming ceremony is held. At death, the body is buried and paper models of money, houses and cars are burnt to help the soul in the afterlife. After about ten years the body is dug up and the bones buried again in an auspicious site.

Festivals and Calendar Events

There are hundreds of local festivals. The main festivals: Chinese New Year; Ching Ming, for the veneration of the dead; the Hungry Ghosts' festival for the release of the restless dead; and the Moon Festival, celebrating the harvest moon.

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Last updated 8/18/2006

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