Return to Simplicity: Taoism and Life

Author: Zhang Zhenquan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-07-01
Features: Taoism is a religion that originated in China. Due to historical reasons, many readers have little knowledge of Taoism. This book is a popular read that systematically introduces knowledge about Taoism. The author is the Deputy Secretary-General of the Shanghai Taoist Association and the Executive Editor of the Shanghai Taoism magazine, with profound research and high expertise in Taoism and Taoist culture. The book is divided into five chapters, following the traditional Five Elements system: Getting Closer to Taoism, Understanding Taoism, Reading Taoism, Knowing Taoism, and Thinking About Taoism.
"Getting Closer to Taoism" starts with the daily life and common knowledge of Taoist priests, addressing the general concerns and curiosities of readers. It introduces the real-life situations in contemporary Taoist temples, offering a glimpse into the daily lives or temple life of Taoist priests throughout history.
"Understanding Taoism" introduces friends who wish to familiarize themselves with Taoism, covering its historical origins, major Taoist sects, and principal deities.
"Reading Taoism" aims to showcase the cultural penetration of Taoism and its role as a driving force in traditional Chinese culture. The historical figures and renowned scholars’ perceptions of Taoism, whether fresh or vague, direct or indirect, may serve as guidance for modern readers.
"Knowing Taoism" explores the multifaceted influence of Taoism on life, including social ethics, family virtues, professional ethics, life philosophy, values, and behavior.
"Thinking About Taoism" aims to inform readers that while Taoism, which incorporates the strengths of various schools, has evolved over thousands of years, it has inevitably been mixed with dross and impurities. Its complexity and redundancy can be bewildering, and its utilitarianism and mysticism have been exploited by some Taoist priests as tools for financial gain.
The book explains the origins and sects of Taoism in an accessible manner, explores its influence on traditional Chinese culture and life philosophy, reveals its mysterious aspects, and presents the religious activities and temple life of Taoist priests. It also examines the rise and fall of Taoism over millennia and its future direction. The writing is fluent and highly readable.