Taoism
Only about 5 million people in the world follow Taoism
Taoism (pronounced "dowism") is based on the teachings written in the Tao Te Ching, a book that is attributed to Lao-tzu, but believed to have been written by several people. Tao is translated as "the Way"
The key teaching of Taoism is that there is a spirtual force in the universe which is present in all things, yet it is greater than all things. Other beliefs of Taoism are:
- The Tao is constantly changing, like nature
- The goal of Taoists is to live their life "in tune" with the Tao
- Disease and other problems in life are from not living "in tune" with the Tao
The symbol of Taoism is the Yin and the Yang - darkness and femininity versus brightness and masculinity
Taoists also believe that nothing should be forced - or Wu Wei. A person should simply let things happen, rather than trying to control
Taoists share Buddhist and Confucian festivals - a result of being religions that is followed alongside each other in China