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The Chinese religious traditions of Daoism and Confucianism were interwoven together in the souls of the people, whose reverence for ancestors and striving for harmony with nature were elevated by the ethics and ideals of them both. Lao Zi and Kong Fuzi (Confucius) were contemporaries in sixth century BCE China. The two traditions coexist peacefully, even within the individual follower. Lao Zi founded Daoism in an effort to end the constant feudal warfare. His writings describe the way to peace and how a ruler should led his life. According to legend, Kong Fuzi visited with Lao Zi and was very impressed with his superior intellect, comparing him to a mysterious dragon. The teachings of Kong Fuzi (Confucianism), dealt mostly with ethics and education. He endeavored to elevate the most refined elements in the prevailing societal and governmental traditions by traveling throughout China, giving advice to its rulers, and teaching morality and ethics. Daoism (Taoism), which was based on the teachings of Lao Zi, was more of a way to achieve personal enlightenment, while, the teachings of Kong Fuzi (Confucianism), dealt more with ethics and education.
Daoists believed that
people are by nature, good, and that one should be kind to others simply because
such treatment will probably be reciprocated. The goal of everyone is to become
one with the Dao.
Tai Chi, a technique of exercise using slow deliberate movements, is used to work all parts of the body and massage the internal organs. People should develop virtue and seek compassion, moderation, and humility. One should plan any action in advance and achieve it through minimal action. Daoist sages pursued a long life and virtual immortality by seeking mystical union with the great pattern of nature and its Dao. Becoming nameless, formless, and simple, they gain virtuous power. Some of the basic tenets of Daoism are: Non-contention, solve problems by peaceful means rather than with conflict and violence; Non-action, when one is attuned to the Dao you do less and accomplish more; Non-intention, perform virtuous deeds without regard to reward; Simplicity, make everyday living uncomplicated and effortless; Wisdom, transcend the limits of logic by using your intuition. Insights come from living the Dao rather than book knowledge; Humility, the more you learn, the more you realize how much you do not yet understand; Duality, all worldly qualities are defined by the existence of their opposites, something is loud only by comparison to something that is quiet. There are about twenty million followers of Daoism, primarily in Taiwan, with some followers in North America, where acupuncture, herbalism, martial arts, meditation and holistic medicine are prevalent.
For further information
about the teachings of Lao Zi please see the Daoism
Confucian Background Beliefs Overview and Traditions.
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