Does China still practice Taoism?

Today, Taoism is one of five official recognized religions in the People’s Republic of China. The government regulates its activities through the Chinese Taoist Association. However, Taoism is practiced without government involvement in Taiwan, where it claims millions of adherents.

Why is Taoism a religion?

Taoism (also known as Daoism) is a Chinese philosophy attributed to Lao Tzu (c. Taoism is therefore both a philosophy and a religion. It emphasizes doing what is natural and “going with the flow” in accordance with the Tao (or Dao), a cosmic force which flows through all things and binds and releases them.

Is Taoism older than Confucianism?

Taoism (also called Daoism) is a Chinese religion that developed a bit after Confucianism, around two thousand years ago. In contrast to Confucianism, Taoism is mainly concerned with the spiritual elements of life, including the nature of the universe.

Is Falun Gong similar to Buddhism or Daoism?

These practices have been incorporated into Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism. Falun Gong or Falun Dafa is set apart from other forms of qigong by its greater emphasis on morality, rather than mere “life energy.” Spiritually, Falun Gong is most similar to Buddhism, and ultimately falls short for the same reasons.

Why was Falun Gong banned in China?

The practice initially enjoyed support from Chinese officialdom, but by the mid to late 1990s, the Communist Party and public security organizations increasingly viewed Falun Gong as a potential threat due to its size, independence from the state, and spiritual teachings.

What is the first book of Falun Gong teachings?

The first book of Falun Gong teachings was published in April 1993. Called China Falun Gong, or simply Falun Gong, it is an introductory text that discusses qigong, Falun Gong’s relationship to Buddhism, the principles of cultivation practice and the improvement of moral character (xinxing).

What are the 3 virtues of Falun Gong?

Practitioners of Falun Gong believe that they accumulate two opposing forces: karma and virtue, the balance of which determines their fortune and eventual reincarnation. The three highest virtues of Falun Gong are Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance.