Daoist

Daoist, also spelled Taoist, refers to a follower or practitioner of Daoism (Daojia), a Chinese tradition that seeks harmony with the Dao (the Way). Daoism encompasses philosophical schools, religious movements, and popular practices. Philosophical Daoism emphasizes living in accordance with the Dao, valuing simplicity, humility, and non-contention, with wu wei (effortless or natural action) as a guiding principle. Religious Daoism expands these ideas with ritual, temples, priesthoods, and a cosmology of qi (vital energy), yin and yang, and a spectrum of practices aimed at longevity and spiritual development.

Key texts include the philosophical core of the Dao De Jing (Tao Te Ching) and Zhuangzi, which outline the nature of the Dao and how to align with it. Later religious Daoism gathers scriptures in the Daozang and develops organized traditions, notably the Quanzhen and Zhengyi lineages, each with its own temples, rites, and monastic communities.

Practices associated with Daoism include meditation, breath control, qigong and other forms of internal cultivation, ritual offerings, talismans, divination, and feng shui. Religious Daoism often involves temple worship, priestly ceremonies, and pilgrimages, while philosophical Daoism centers on study and contemplation. Daoists have contributed to traditional Chinese medicine, alchemical experiments, and internal arts, and their influence extends to cultural aspects such as festivals, art, and literature.

In modern contexts, Daoism remains a major component of Chinese religious life and cultural heritage, with adherents in Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and overseas communities, and continues to adapt within contemporary spiritual landscapes.