Taoism in China,Chinese Taoism

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Tao (pronounced "Dow") can be roughly translated into English as the way, but is essentially an indefinable concept. Taoists believe that the Tao must be experienced. It "refers to a power which envelops, surrounds and flows through all things, living and non-living. The Tao regulates natural processes and encourages balance in the Universe. It also promotes the Harmony of Opposites (love/hate, light/dark).

Taoism is a combination of philosophical and psychological ideas that developed into a religion following its adoption as a state religion in 440 AD. However state support for Taoism ended with the fall of the Chi'ng Dynasty in 1911. Unfortunateluy, much Taoist lore was destroyed or lost during the period of war that followed. Then after the Communist victory in 1949, religios freedom was greatly restricted.

Lao-Tse is thought by many to be the founder of Taoism, and has become a diety in his own right. He was searching for a way that would avoid the constant feudal warfare and other conflicts that disrupted society during his lifetime. The result was his book: Tao-te-Ching (a.k.a. Daodejing). Others believe that he is a merely a mythical character.

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Taoism