We show you all the legends of Taoism, its Mythology and Origins. Discover how it has influenced other cultures and religions.
what is Taoism?
Taoism is a traditional Chinese philosophy and religion based on the concept of the Tao (also written as Dao), which is commonly translated as“the Way” or “the Way“. Tao represents the primordial force and cosmic principle that underlies everything in the universe. According to Taoism, living in harmony with the Tao is fundamental to achieving inner peace, wisdom and spiritual fulfillment.
Taoism is mainly attributed to Laozi, who wrote the Taoist classic “Tao Te Ching” around the 6th century BC. In addition to the “Tao Te Ching”, another important Taoist text is the “Zhuangzi”, attributed to Zhuangzi (also known as Chuang Tzu), a later Taoist philosopher.
Dimensions of Taoism
Taoism has multiple dimensions, including the practice of meditation, internal alchemy, traditional Chinese medicine, and various forms of personal and spiritual cultivation. It also incorporates ideas such as wu wei (effortless action), simplicity, spontaneity and the cyclical nature of existence.
In addition to its philosophical dimension, Taoism has also developed a religious aspect, with deity worship, ancestor veneration, rituals and more formal spiritual practices. In contemporary practice, Taoism has influenced many areas of Chinese culture, including medicine, martial arts, literature and painting.
Taoist History and Influence
The history of Taoism dates back thousands of years in China. Its origin is attributed to the legendary sage Laozi, who is said to have written the“Tao Te Ching“, although Laozi’s historical existence is a matter of debate. However, Taoist philosophy began to take clear shape during the period of the Warring Kingdoms (475-221 BC) and developed further during the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD).
During the Han dynasty, Taoism merged with other Chinese religious and philosophical traditions, such as Confucianism and Buddhism. This synthesis resulted in more organized forms of Taoism, with the creation of temples, religious rituals and more elaborate spiritual practices. Several Taoist schools emerged, each with its own interpretations and approaches.
Influence of Taoism
Taoism was influential throughout China and spread over the centuries through cultural and religious influence. It was practiced throughout the country, from urban to rural regions, and its influence spread to neighboring countries such as Korea, Japan and Vietnam.
Taoism has also left a significant mark on Chinese geography through the construction of temples, shrines and sacred sites. Some of the most important places for Taoism include Mount Qingcheng and Mount Wudang, both of which are considered sacred sites and centers of Taoist practice.
Over the centuries, Taoism has experienced periods of expansion and suppression, depending on political and social changes in China. During the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD), Taoism experienced a revival, while in the Qing dynasty (1644-1912 AD), it suffered persecution and restrictions.
Most popular myths of Taoism
This philosophy, like many other religious and philosophical traditions, is full of myths and legends that help convey its fundamental teachings and values. Each of these myths conveys important teachings about the nature of the universe, morality and human life.
Laozi and the birth of the Tao Te Ching
One of the best known myths is that of the birth of Laozi, the legendary founder of this philosophy who is said to have been born as a wise old man already with a white beard and wrote the “Tao Te Ching” before mysteriously disappearing in western China riding a buffalo.
The myth of the Tao
Taoism teaches that the universe originated from the Tao, a primordial and universal force. According to the myth, the Tao is the origin of all things and exists before any tangible form. The Tao is often described as a mysterious and indescribable entity that underlies all things.
The Eight Immortals of Taoism
This is a set of legendary figures in the tao, each with supernatural abilities and distinctive characteristics. The Eight Immortals are revered as protectors and symbols of longevity, prosperity and happiness.
The Queen Mother of the West
She is a mythical figure in Taoism who resides at Kunlun Peak, a sacred place. She is believed to possess the elixir of immortality and is associated with fertility, longevity and harmony.
The Battle of the Five Elements
According to this myth, the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal and water) fought each other for supreme dominance. After the battle, balance was restored and the elements learned to cooperate with each other, thus teaching the value of harmony and balance in nature.
The Three Pure Ones of Taoism
They are supreme deities of the tao who represent the fundamental aspects of the universe: Heaven, Earth and Man. They are believed to reside in the celestial realm and oversee the creation and harmony of the cosmos.
Mythical Figures of Taoism
Taoism has been influenced by various figures throughout its history. These figures represent a variety of approaches and contributions to tao throughout its history, from its philosophical roots to its religious and practical developments.
Laozi (Lao Tzu or Lao Tse)
Lao Tse is considered the legendary founder of Taoism and is credited with the authorship of the “Tao Te Ching”, one of the fundamental texts of Taoism.
Zhuangzi (Chuang Tzu)
He is another of the great philosophers of Taoism and author of “Zhuangzi”, a text that explores Taoist teachings through stories and parables.
Zhang Daoling
He is considered the founder of religious Taoism, also known as “Celestial Taoism” or “Taoism of the Five Little Homunculi”. He is credited with founding the “Way of the Celestial Masters” school during the Han dynasty.
Ge Hong
A prominent alchemist and Tao philosopher during the Jin dynasty (265-420 A.D.), he is known for his writings on internal and external alchemy, medicine, and spirituality.
Chen Tuan
A Taoist scholar and practitioner during the Song dynasty (960-1279 AD), he is known for his work in the field of meditation and internal alchemy.
Lü Dongbin
One of the “Eight Immortals” of the Chinese tao, a mythical and legendary figure associated with inner alchemy and spiritual cultivation.
Wang Chongyang
Founder of the Quanzhen (“Complete Way”) sect of Tao during the Song dynasty, he promoted the combination of Taoist practices with Buddhist and Confucian teachings.
Chang Tao-ling
Another of the “Eight Immortals”, legendary for being a Taoist magician and alchemist, he is said to be a descendant of Laozi and founder of the “Way of the Celestial Masters” sect.
