by Rhianna Suttie-Gunson

Created on: November 10, 2007

Having helped shaped Chinese life for more than 2000 years, it is hard to believe that before I sat down to write this article, I knew very little of Taoism or it's history. In fact I barely even knew the word.

Having only just began my research I am already taken with the belief system. Taoism is based upon the flow and balance of life. When all in the universe is in perfect harmony then the flow is smooth and free. When properties begin to become unbalanced the flow of life begins to fall into disarray.

The most common graphical representation of Taoism is the circular Yin and Yang symbol. This is widely associated with the life of the surfer and is seen on many of their main clothing brands. This symbol represents the balance of opposites which is one of the foundations of the religion.

Taoism is embodied by the harmony of opposites. In order for balance to occur, there must be an opposite entity. Without the presence of hate there is no love. If there was no dark, how would we know the morning light. Man can not exist without woman.

Beginning as a combination of psychology and philosophy it evolved into a religious faith, when the Chinese were searching for ways to avoid the constant feudal warfare and other conflicts that had disrupting society throughout time. In 440 CE Taoism was adopted as a state religion. Along with Buddhism and Confucianism it makes up the 3 great religions of China.

While surviving for thousands of years and having the support of millions, 1911 saw the destruction of Taoism. This occurred when the Ch'ing Dynasty ended and state support for the religion ceased.

The following years saw a significant portion of Taoist heritage destroyed as religious freedom became restricted. This was only furthered when the Communists took victory in 1949. By 1960 a reduction in numbers, that nearly equaled extinction was experienced as millions of monks has been reduced to around 50,000.

Thankfully since 1982, under ding Xiao-ping, religious tolerance is slowly being restored and Taoism, within China is on the increase.

Taoism is considered as a 'mode of living' rather than a theology. Followers say that Tao surrounds us all and one just needs to listen to receive enlightenment. To fully understand the Tao way of life is easier if experienced rather than defined. As balance occurs differently for each person.

This is only a very brief insight into the history of Taoism. It is not a subject that can be skimmed over. The history of the actual development of Taoism as a religion is complex and long. There two primary figures are Lao Tzu and Chang Tzu. They dedicated their lives to balancing their inner spirits and sharing their experience on paper.

As with any religion there are conflicting reports on how ideas were created. Some believe that Lao Tzu (who is also known by a range of similar names) was actually a mythical person. So until I have carried out some further research on the subject I will leave my introduction to the history of Taoism here.

If you are after more information pages researched for this page are as follows
http://www.religioustolerance.org/taoism.htm
h ttp://www.crystalinks.com/taoism.html

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