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He is the Taiqing (太清, lit. the Grand Pure One) which is one of the Three Pure Ones, the highest immortals of Taoism. Laozi is regarded to be a manifestation of Daode Tianzun who authored the classic Tao Te Ching. He is traditionally regarded as the founder of Taoism, intimately connected with "primordial" (or "original") Taoism.
Taoist music is the ceremonial music of Taoism. The importance of music in Taoist ceremony is demonstrated by revealing how central beliefs are reflected through elements of music such as instrumentation and rhythm. Expression of spiritual beliefs through music enables followers of Taoism to enhance their path to enlightenment.
Schools of Taoist thought developed around each of these deities. Taoist Alchemy was a large part of these schools, as each of the Three Pure Ones represented one of the three essential fields of the body: jing, qi and shen. The congregation of all three Pure Ones resulted in the return to Tao. The first Pure One is universal or heavenly chi.
The three highest Gods in the Taoist pantheon Yuanshi Tianzun or Yuánshǐ Tīanzūn, also known as the Jade Pure One; Lingbao Tianzun, also known as the Lord of Lingbao and Shangqing; Daode Tianzun or Tàiqīng, also known as Taishang Laojun and Daode Zhizun; Wenshu Guangfa Tianzun, a character in the classic Chinese novel Investiture of the Gods
In Taoism and Chinese folk religion, gods and xian [36] are often seen as embodiments of water. [37] Water gods and xian were often thought to ensure good grain harvests, mild weather and seas, and rivers with abundant water. [37] Some xian were thought to be humans who gained power by drinking "charmed water". [36]
Inspired by the burgeoning Taoist movement in Southern China, Kou retreated to Mount Song in Henan to receive inspiration. On the mountain, as described by the text The History of the Wei Dynasty, he was visited twice by Laozi. In his first visit in 415, Laozi revealed to Kou a text known as the Laojun Yinsong Jiejing (New Code). [4]
In some sects of Taoism, Chinese Buddhism, Confucianism, and Chinese folk religion, it is held that he then became an immortal hermit. [2] Certain Taoist devotees held that the Tao Te Ching was the avatar – embodied as a book – of the god Laojun, one of the Three Pure Ones of the Taoist pantheon, though few philosophers believe this. [3]
Taoism evolved in response to changing times, with its doctrine and associated practices being revised and refined. The acceptance of Taoism by the ruling class has waxed and waned, alternately enjoying periods of favor and rejection. Most recently, Taoism has emerged from a period of suppression and is undergoing a revival in China.