Lesson 3: Doctrines of Taoism
This lesson examines the ideas of wu wei and immortality, as envisioned by Taoists.
Introduction
There are several ideas common in Chinese thought that permeate Taoist thought as well. To divide them is fruitless - they are as much apart of Taoist thought as Taoist thought is a part of Chinese culture. Chinese folk knowledge helps to explain Taoist ideas, and Taoist ideas have been incorporated into the knowledge from which all Chinese religions draw.
As an example of the former, let us first examine the orientation of Taoist temples. Their entrances most often face south, which is thought to be the best direction to face, as evil spirits often move in from the north. This is not a purely Taoist principle, but rather a tenet of feng shui, the art of geomancy that does play a great role in Taoist thought, but also the thought of all religious Chinese.
In Taoism we will find a series of ideas that are purely Taoist - many of these ideas seem bizarre to the western mind. When examining these it is crucial to understand two things - many ideas have an underlying, esoteric meaning that the uninitiated cannot comprehend, and that though these ideas were Taoist it does not mean they were practiced by a great deal of Taoists - often only the adepts at the fringes of the tradition were interested and disciplined enough to participate.
Taoism would also often enter the realm of politics - at least, there were many Taoist texts relating to politics. In reality, however, no emperors of China would fully implement the plans suggested by the Taoist writers. Though many Chinese emperors would profess Taoism as their religion, and would employ Taoists for their skill in magic and philosophy, the Taoist political agenda was unappealing to those in power.
There is also a monastic tradition within Taoism, as there is in other religions, such as Buddhism and Christianity. As Taoism is a smaller religion, one expects (and finds) smaller monastic communities. The arrival of Buddhism certainly influenced this development, but Taoist monasticism has its own distinct flavor. Like the monastic traditions in other religions - which grew from counter-culture movements - Taoist monasticism grew out of the unorthodox hermit culture we find praised in such works as the Dao de Jing and Zhuangzi. Communities would form around and be lead by charismatic Taoists.
At the end of this lesson there will be another five question multiple choice quiz, as well as two analysis questions for further reflection. The multiple choice questions will test your knowledge of factual information you will have picked up during your reading of the following lesson, while the analysis questions will guide you in contemplating some of the deeper, more abstract issues presented. Feel free to participate in both sections at your leisure - however, taking advantage of both will surely ensure your ability to retain important information and critically examine all the information with confidence.
Finally, a note about the final section of this lesson, which deals with immortality practices. Taoist texts often make reference to different forms of sexual expression, and these are described briefly in this section. Please know that I have made every effort to ensure these are presented in the most plain and sensitive language. I understand the topic can be uncomfortable for some, and I hope that you will approach it knowing that it is presented only for the knowledge of the student.
