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Taoism or Daoism ( / ˈ t aʊ. ɪ z əm / ⓘ , / ˈ d aʊ . ɪ z əm / ⓘ ) is a diverse philosophical and religious tradition indigenous to China , emphasizing harmony with the Tao 道 ( pinyin : dào ; Wade–Giles : tao 4 ).
The history of Taoism stretches throughout Chinese history. Originating in prehistoric China, it has exerted a powerful influence over Chinese culture throughout the ages. Taoism evolved in response to changing times, with its doctrine and associated practices being revised and refined.
In Taoism, an absolute entity which is the source of the universe; the way in which this absolute entity functions. 1. b. = Taoism, taoist. 2. In Confucianism and in extended uses, the way to be followed, the right conduct; doctrine or method. The earliest recorded usages were Tao (1736), Tau (1747), Taou (1831), and Dao (1971).
Taoism gained official status in China during the Tang dynasty, whose emperors claimed Laozi as their relative. [34] The Gaozong Emperor added the Daodejing to the list of classics (jīng, 經) to be studied for the imperial examinations. [35] This was the height of Taoist influence in Chinese history.
Language and conventional wisdom are critically assessed. Taoism views them as inherently biased and artificial, widely using paradoxes to sharpen the point. [44] Wu wei, literally 'non-action' or 'not acting', is a central concept of the Tao Te Ching.
The term Tao means "way", "path" or "principle", and can also be found in Chinese philosophies and religions other than Taoism. In Taoism, however, Tao denotes something that is both the source and the driving force behind everything that exists. It is ultimately ineffable: "The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao." [1] Also called Daoism.
Taoism is an East Asian religion founded in ancient China with many schools or denominations, of which none occupies a position of orthodoxy and co-existed peacefully. [1] Taoist branches usually build their identity around a set of scriptures, that are manuals of ritual practices. [ 2 ]
The Quanzhen School of Daoism had a variety of definitions about what xian means during its history, including a metaphorical meaning where the term simply means a good, principled person. [3] Xian have been venerated from ancient times to the modern day in a variety of ways across different cultures and religious sects in China. [4] [5] [6]