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Daoism (Taoism) encompassed philosophical teachings, as well as, metaphysical religious practices. Daoist (Taoist) practice involves Shen Ling Chi or spiritual, mystical energy. The Dao (Tao) was concerned with acquiring wholistic comprehension of universal processes, including the diversity of manifestation arising from the everchanging cycles of creative energy. There were many mystical alchemical aspects of Daoism such as alchemy, amulets, magic, exorcism, cosmology, reverence for "Old Master" sage Laozi and other divinities, pursuit of immortality, traditional medicine, acupuncture, herbalism, divination, self-cultivation, martial arts, meditation, purity of intention, aesthetic appreciation, and communion with nature. There were also Daoist temples, sects, and teaching lineages with beliefs, sacred texts and rituals passed on by teachers to select students.
Daoism and Confucianism have peacefully coexisted
together for so long because they both share the "I Ching" (Book of Changes) and
the metaphysical Yin-Yang cosmology. The commentaries of the "Book of Changes" (I Ching), a divination oracle, were imbued with values and
ethics.
Daoism shares many Buddhist concepts and words. When Chinese scholars first came across Buddhism, they found the Buddhist beliefs to be a corresponding complement to those of Daoism. The arrival of mystical Buddhist thought in China invigorated, rejuvenated, and restructured Daoism. Buddhist scriptures were translated into the language and terms of Daoism. The Dao De Jing, a book about the way and its virtue, served as a source of inspiration for Chinese artists, calligraphers, gardeners, painters, and poets. The Dao De Jing mainly emphasized Yin (female) values like the fluidity of water, softness, and seeking knowledge about the unseen mystifying aspects of life. Daoists believed that people are by nature, good, and that one should be kind to others simply because such treatment will probably be reciprocated. The goal of everyone is to become one with the Dao. Tai Chi, a technique of exercise using slow deliberate movements, was used to work all parts of the body and massage the internal organs.
Daoist sages pursued a long
life and virtual immortality by seeking mystical union with the great pattern of
nature and its Dao. Becoming nameless, formless, and simple, they gain virtuous
power.
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