Taoism
A Chinese philosophy based on the writings of Lao-tzu ( fl. 6th century BC), advocating humility and religious piety.
Distinctions
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Summary
Taoism takes its name from the CHinese word Tao, which means the "way" or "path" and refers to the Way of the Universe. The Tao is a natural force that guides all life throughout the universe.
"It is the deep source of everything. It is nothing and yet in everything." (Tao Te Ching 4)
Taoists believe that distress and suffering arise when people struggle against the Way of Nature but that if they travel with the Tao their lives will be in harmoony with the order of the universe.
This order is kept in balance by the opposing forces of yin and yang - forces that are continually changing and interacting with each other, giving order to all life. Many Taoists believe that if they withdraw from the world to remote mountains or other secluded places they are much closer to nature and can discover the true meanding of the Tao.
Symbol
This symbol represents the interaction and balance of yin and yang. Yin is a cool dark force that is seen in rain, clouds, winter and snow; yang is a hot bright force that is seen in thunder, the Earth, summer, and the Sun.
Worldwide Numbers
There are about 20,000 Taoist priests, both male and female, in China. Taoist traditions are followed by Chinese communities all over the world and Taoist thought, literature, and philosophy is becoming increasingly popular with non-Chinese followers.
Holy Places
There are many temples and shrines in China that are centers of local pilgrimage. The major pilgrimage sites, however, are the five Taoist mountains.
Holy Writings
There are hundreds of sacred Taoist texts. One of the most influential writers is the great sage Lao Tzu, author of the Tao Te Ching. This book of poetry and pholosophy explains the Way of the Tao and is also widely ready by non-Taoists.
Key Links
Additional in-depth information here on Wikipedia.