|
|
Posted by Lie Feng on January 16, 19102 at 18:01:19:
In Reply to: I need some information posted by Stephanie on September 29, 19101 at 15:09:55:
Hi Stephanie,
This is my first time posting here, so please be patient. IGNOR Blizzardwolf's comment - he/she does not know a thing about Taoism apparently.
Taoism is a very old religion, as old as the oldest. At one time it was not called Taoism but something different. Instead of going into the history I will answer your questions instead.
We have rituals and ceremonies, people who do not know this have no connection in the Taoist circle, they have just read books and/or have been taught by someone who isnt a Taoist. To be a Taoist you have to be initiated into a particular sect. If you believe in the Taoist religion and are not initiated then you are a believer in Taoism (the faithful) sort of like a Catholic.
The philosophy of the Tao is not the same as Taoism. Taoism is considered the practice in which the philosophy comes into play.
Taoism does not have a "Holy City". Each sect usually dirives from a certain area and that temple is considered the "Holy City".
We have large lists of Gods, but these Gods are not like the Christian God that westerners believe in. We feel that we have a relationship with them, and that they are here to serve us as well as we serve them (long story - dont have the time). Some of the major dieties are: Kuan-ti, Xuan-mu, Kuan-Yin, Lu-Tung Pin - and the other seven immortals, Xuan-Wu, Jade Emperor - these are just a few of the main Gods, but we have many more. Each sect of Taoism has their main deity, like mine for instance is Xuan-wu others may be Lu Tung Pin or Kuan-ti. It all depends - hope your following along.
Although all Taoist sects differ from each other we all have the same underlining things in common. These are precepts taken by all Taoists and all Taoist have to follow.
I hope that I have answered some of your questions, I am not a scholar in Taoism, just a Taoist.
Blessings,
Lie Feng
: Hi my name is stephanie and I am doing some research on The religion called "Taoism". I am looking for information on Taoists special rituals and special ceremonies. Also I am trying to find out their place of worship, their "Holy City". Who do they worship? If anyone can help me I would greatly appreciate it thanx.
READ THE GREAT BOOKS
TERM PAPERS, RESEARCH PAPERS, ESSAYS
DR. ELLIOT'S NORTH AMERICAN GREAT BOOKS TOUR--COMING TO A BOOK
STORE NEAR YOU
[Shakespeare Forums]
[Bible Forums]