Daoism/Taoism Essay Example

known as The Way and Its Virtue (Tao Te Ching), emphasizes the importance of individuals becoming part of Tao (also known as "The Way") in order to attain happiness. Tao is defined by Taoists as the natural path that all things follow or the collective essence of spontaneity. By withdrawing from society and reflecting on their unity with nature, individuals can join Tao. The central principle of Taoism is wu wei, which means refraining from forced or artificial actions and instead embracing natural and spontaneous behavior.[3]

Taoism promotes the acceptance of the natural flow of events and encourages avoiding extremes. It also advocates for simplicity in political and social organization. Taoists believe that a simple life close to nature is the happiest one. They consider controlling events, acquiring knowledge, or following strict rules as unnatural and leading to unhappiness.

III. Discussion

A religion's Founder, as well as its basic beliefs, practices, and sacred writings, are associated with it.

The Tao-te Ching, authored by the semi-mythical Lao-tzu, poses difficulties in accurately understanding its aphorisms. Nonetheless, it clearly conveys a naturalistic perspective on reality. This standpoint advocates for ethical individualism and philosophical anarchism within Western philosophy.[4]

The ancient Chinese philosophy delves into the first exploration of ontology, which is concerned with being or reality. According to this philosophy, there is a formless yet complete entity that exists before heaven and earth. This entity is silent and immaterial, existing alone and unchanging. It permeates everything and is inexhaustible, serving as the mother of all things under heaven. Although its name is unknown, it is referred to as "The Way" or Tao. The progression

from Tao to tangible and individual existences involves a transition from simplicity to multiplicity. Tao gives rise to One, One gives rise to Two, Two gives rise to Three, and ultimately Three gives rise to countless things.

The practice of living entails embracing nature (Tao) and having faith in one's own instincts (Te). It is crucial to cultivate spontaneity and not pursue anything that goes against natural inclinations. Striving excessively can lead to unfavorable results, therefore it is advisable to value what one already possesses and avoid going to extremes. Those who become attached to material possessions will ultimately experience the greatest losses, whereas finding contentment ensures eternal existence. Understanding when to stop prevents one from perishing. As a result, wise individuals steer clear of excessive behavior, extravagance, and indulgence. [6]

In order to achieve a desired outcome, it is necessary to take a different approach and humble oneself. According to the saying "Heaven achieves victory proficiently without contending," those who are aggressive and fierce do not meet a natural death. Therefore, wise individuals must communicate in a way that is beneath others in order to rise above them, and stay behind others in person in order to lead ahead of them. By doing so, when the wise individual is seen as superior, people do not feel burdened; and when they are perceived as ahead, people do not feel hindered. As a result, the entire world happily respects the wise person because they do not engage in competition and therefore no one competes with them.

The cultivation of moral virtues is a challenging task that goes against human nature. Benevolence, righteousness, and

propriety only emerge when individuals have deviated from their original simplicity and perfection, owing to the artificialities they have created. Instead of promoting human happiness, both morality and laws contribute to confusion.

The article explores the significance and influence of Taoism in society, drawing comparisons to Buddhism, Confucianism, Jainism, Sikhism, Hinduism, and Shinto.

According to Taoism, personal happiness is obtained by avoiding conflict, while good governance is achieved through tolerance. When rulers impose their beliefs on others, it hinders people's natural inclinations and ultimately reduces their well-being. It is believed that more rules and restrictions lead to an increase in criminal activity. On the other hand, when the government takes a passive approach, the population will be satisfied.

Despite initially rejecting certain beliefs and practices of Hinduism, Buddhism shares important beliefs with its predecessor. These shared beliefs include reincarnation, the belief in being reborn in a new body[9]. Both religions also uphold karma as the law governing events based on past lives and actions. Liberation or salvation from karma and rebirth is acknowledged by both religions. Buddhism teaches that understanding and practicing the Four Noble Truths leads to liberation[10].

Suffering in life arises from a longing for pleasure, existence, and prosperity.

When desires cease, suffering and rebirth also come to an end, resulting in enlightenment or Nirvana. In this state, one attains peace, harmony, and joy.

The Eightfold Path, a summarized way or path to Nirvana.

The following concepts are considered to be essential for leading a righteous life:

• Right understanding
• Right thoughts
• Right speech
• Right conduct
• Right occupation
• Right
  

effort

The Middle Way, also known as the Eightfold Path, requires Buddhists to avoid extreme behaviors such as excessive self-punishment and indulging in sensual pleasures. They must adhere to the ethical principles of the Eightfold Path, which emphasize nonviolence and the interconnectedness of all beings.[11]

Chinese culture has been greatly influenced by Confucianism, which gives priority to human and societal values over nature. In contrast, Taoism places significant importance on nature. Although Confucianism emphasizes moral conduct in one's present life without mystical elements or concern for the afterlife like Buddhism does, many Chinese individuals saw these three religions as complementary rather than conflicting and adhered to all three.

Confucianism emphasizes the practice of benevolence and love, also known as Jen, as well as the harmonious development of things, known as the Doctrine of the Mean. According to Confucius, the cultivation of Jen starts with filial piety. He aimed for a society where family life thrives, the state is well-organized, and global peace is achieved. Observing rules of etiquette, propriety, and ceremony is essential in maintaining harmonious human relationships and is an expression of respect. The ideal Confucian man is someone who helps others establish their own character before nurturing his own. He is sincere and displays emotional harmony free from anxiety or fear.

Jainism is a form of Hinduism originated in India and focuses on individuals achieving spiritual triumph over their physical desires. The term "Jainism" is derived from the Sanskrit word "jina," which means "conqueror." According to Jainism, strict ascetic practices such as abstaining from sexual pleasure, renouncing material possessions, and frequent fasting are

necessary for attaining salvation or nirvana. Jains also follow ahimsa, a principle that promotes non-violence towards animals and insects.[14]

The Granth Sahib, also known as the Lord Book, is the sacred scripture of Sikhism. It is a religion originating in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan that centers around belief in one God. Sikh men practice certain religious traditions such as keeping long hair, untrimmed beards, and wearing turbans.[15]

Hinduism, which comes from the Sanskrit word sindhu meaning "river," is the main religion in India. It includes various native Indian religions, both past and present. Hinduism has influenced India's social structure, particularly through the caste system, a system of hereditary classes.[16]

Hinduism, the oldest major religion in the world, is distinctive as it lacks a designated founder. Unlike other religions, Hinduism has never enforced conversion and has always embraced incorporating ideas from other faiths. With around 20 different sects, Hinduism encompasses beliefs ranging from primitive forms of animism to profound levels of mysticism and philosophy. Though these sects may appear as separate religions, they are linked by shared traditions and thrive within India's unique circumstances. While many of these sects have a mystical aspect, they all emphasize the significance of nonviolence.

Shinto, or Shintoism, is a prominent religion in Japan that has deep connections to tradition and social structures. Unlike other religions, it lacks an official doctrine. Worship in Shinto entails conducting a purification ritual at a shrine.

The following text provides information about the origins and deities linked to Shinto, which is commonly translated as "Way of the Gods." Initially, it encompassed a type of reverence towards nature, with Amaterasu, the sun

goddess, holding significant importance. Gradually, additional deities such as certain emperors and national heroes were incorporated into Shinto beliefs.

IV. Conclusion

To summarize, my research has concluded that Taoism prioritizes practicality and reasoning. It places emphasis on human happiness in a society where simplicity and harmony prevail. Death is regarded as significant by Taoists, who use knotted cords for communication rather than writing. They derive contentment from their food, clothing, homes, and traditions. What I admire about Taoism is its teachings on finding fulfillment in life and expressing gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us by heaven.

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