Get Daoism: An Introduction (Introductions to Religion) PDF

By Ronnie L. Littlejohn

ISBN-10: 1845116380

ISBN-13: 9781845116385

ISBN-10: 1845116399

ISBN-13: 9781845116392

the best way that may be advised isn't the everlasting means; the identify that may be named isn't the everlasting Name.' So starts the 1st verse of the mysterious Dao De Jing, starting place textual content of the traditional chinese language faith of Daoism. frequently attributed to semi-mythical sage Laozi, the origins of this enigmatic rfile - which most likely got here into being within the 3rd century BCE - are literally unknown. however the tenets of Daoism laid down within the Dao De Jing, and in later texts just like the Yi Jing (or 'Book of Changes'), proceed to exert substantial fascination, relatively within the West, the place in recent times they've been popularised by way of writers akin to the novelist Ursula ok LeGuin. during this clean and fascinating advent to Daoism, Ronnie L Littlejohn discusses the vital points of a practice that could occasionally look as elusive because the slippery idea of ‘Dao’ itself. the writer exhibits that primary to Daoism is the suggestion of ‘Wu-wei’, or non-action: a paradoxical notion emphasising alignment of the self with the concord of the universe, a universe in continuous flux and alter. This flux is expressed by means of the recognized image of Dao, the ‘taiji’ representing yin and yang endlessly correlating within the kind of a harmonious circle. Exploring the nice subtleties of this old faith, Littlejohn strains its improvement and encounters with Buddhism; its expression in artwork and literature; its struggle for survival through the Cultural Revolution; and its manifestations in modern day China and beyond.

'A marvellously targeted and hugely readable background of Daoist faith and tradition. The booklet additionally offers a wealth of data on how Daoism has formed chinese language philosophy, politics and artwork during the centuries. A must-read for somebody who desires a fuller appreciation of chinese language background, and hugely instructed for introductory sessions on chinese language religions.' - James Miller, affiliate Professor of chinese language Religions, Queen's college, Ontario, Canada

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