taoism

Taoism, or Daoism, is a religious and philosophical tradition of China that centers on living in harmony with the Dao (the Way), the ultimate principle that underlies and unites all aspects of the cosmos. It encompasses a broad range of beliefs and practices, and has influenced Chinese culture, thought, medicine, and arts for centuries. Taoism exists in philosophical forms, which emphasize naturalness and spontaneity, as well as religious forms, which organize rituals, temples, and priesthoods around the pursuit of health, longevity, and spiritual realization.

Origins and development are traditionally linked to the teachings attributed to Laozi and Zhuangzi, with core texts such as the Dao De Jing and the Zhuangzi. Over time, Taoism split into philosophical strands and organized religious movements. During later periods, particularly from the Han to the medieval era, religious Taoism developed a structured clergy and multiple lineages, such as the Celestial Masters (Tianshi) and Shangqing, which established temples, rituals, and a canon of scriptures known as the Daozang.

Core concepts in Taoism include the Dao as the ineffable source of all phenomena, and the aim of aligning with it through wu wei (effortless action or natural flow). Taoist cosmology often involves the interplay of yin and yang, the cultivation of qi (vital energy), and practices designed to harmonize body and spirit. Practices range from meditation and breathwork to internal alchemy, qigong, ritual rites, talismans, and, in some traditions, dietary and environmental methods such as feng shui.

Today, Taoism remains a significant religious and cultural force in China, Taiwan, and among global Taoist communities, with diverse practices and ongoing influence in contemporary spirituality and traditional medicine.