Q: #Taoism is one of the six oldest existing major world religions alongside Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, but it seems like Taoism has the least members among these six, am I correct?
A: Yes, you are absolutely right. Taoism is an old belief system dated as far back as 2,500 years ago. It is older than Christianity and Islam.
There are many factors and reasons why Taoism did not spread far and wide, but one of the biggest reasons why is because Taoism is a not a religion and philosophy of domination, coercion, and forced conversion.
As per the latest data that we have now in 2023, there are about 100 million people who consider themselves as Taoists.
Majority of Taoists today live in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore. There are also some Taoist communities in Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, and the Philippines. In America, Europe, Australia, and Africa, Taoists belong to the minority.
There are 2 major groups within Taoism. The #Quanzhen Taoists and the #Zhengyi Taoists. Most Quanzhen Taoists live in the mainland China, whereas most Zhengyi Taoists live in the island of Taiwan. For hundreds of years, both live in peace and harmony even as they have different interpretation and tradition of Taoism.
In fact, since its start 2500 years ago up to our present time there is no war or mass violence that can be blamed upon Taoism. A sterling perfect example indeed of what Taoist non-violence and kindness, peace and harmony is all about.
There are many similarities between the Quanzhen and Zhengyi Taoists like both are ritualistic and hierarchical, but one big difference we can say is that the former are more monastic and influenced by Buddhism and Confucianism, while the latter is more layman and influenced by traditional Chinese folk religion. In addition, Quanzhen Taoist priests are not allowed to marry, while Zhengyi Taoist priests are allowed to marry.
Now, there is an emerging third branch within Taoism called #NeoTaoism and this is where our Neo Tao Society belongs to. It is a modern interpretation and practice of Taoism that incorporates elements from the best of East-West philosophical, spiritual, and cultural traditions.
It is a contemporary approach to Taoism that seeks to adapt the teachings of traditional Taoism to the needs and challenges of the modern world. Neo Taoism often emphasizes the practical application of Taoist principles in daily life, focusing on personal growth, self-cultivation, and achieving inner peace, harmony, and balance.
You can know more about Neo Taoism and the Neo Tao Society by visiting our website at www.neotaosociety.com
Thank you and we wish you peace, blessings, and harmony ☯️
