daoism

Everyday

1. A Chinese tradition of thought and religion based on the «Dao» (or «Tao»), «the Way» — the natural flow of the universe; it teaches living simply, calmly and in harmony with nature. tree →
2. The religion that grew from these ideas, with temples, priests, festivals and many gods and immortals. tree →

In the lessons

In religious education and lessons about China, pupils learn that Daoism is linked to the teacher Laozi (Lao Tzu) and the book «Dao De Jing» (Tao Te Ching), and to the yin-yang symbol showing how opposites (dark and light, quiet and active) balance each other. It is often compared with Confucianism, which focuses on rules and duties; Daoism focuses on nature and going with the flow. Tai chi and some Chinese medicine have Daoist roots. Phrases: «the Dao», «the Way», «yin and yang», «Daoist temple».

Examples

• Daoism teaches people to live in harmony with nature. tree →
• The yin-yang symbol is linked with Daoism. tree →
• Laozi is said to have written the Dao De Jing. tree →
• Daoism and Confucianism both began in ancient China. tree →
• My grandad does tai chi, which has roots in Daoism. tree →
• In RE we compared Daoism with Buddhism. tree →
• Daoists believe water shows the Way: soft, yet able to wear down stone. tree →

Note

Written with a capital D. The spellings «Daoism» (newer pinyin) and «Taoism» (older) are the same word; both are said «DOW-ism» (rhymes with «how»). Uncountable. The adjective is «Daoist» (Taoist).