Taoism is a native Chinese religion. It is the second of the three state religions of China. Taoism, as the word indicates is the religion of the Tao. Taoism is the basis for traditional Chinese Medication, together with Confucianism and Buddhism; it also has been guiding Chinese in conduct and exercising authority. Taoism emphasizes on the relative stability which can be attained when harmony is reached between ‘Yin’ and ‘Yang’ which are said to be the opposite but related natural powers of the universe.

According to Taoism, there are five elements in the entire universe-
Wood-Yin, Water-Yin, Earth-Natural, Gold-Yang and Fire-Yang. Taoism Religion guides Chinese about the role of these elements into ones life and to attain harmony. Taoism is also known as Daoism. The term ‘Daoism’ is also associated with assorted naturalistic or mystical religions. The Chinese Government allowed the practice of the religion and the followers are gradually increasing. Taoism or Daoism have influenced Eastern Asia for more than two millennia and have an important influence on the western world since the 19th century.

The Tao Te Ching or Dao De Jing is a Chinese classic text and the central text of both philosophical and religious Taoism. It was written around the 6th century BC by the sage Lao Tzu (Laozi). Laozi is revered as a deity in Taoism. Many Chinese artists, poets, painters and even gardeners have used the Tao Te Ching as a source of inspiration. Today, there are 20 million Taoists worldwide most of whom live in China, Taiwan or Southeast Asia.

Taoism, along with Buddhism and Confucianism became one of the three great religions of China. Chinese philosophy advocates a simple life and a policy of non interference with the natural course of things. Confucianism concerns itself with the social and moral side of life, Taoism focuses on the individual, spiritual life.

The founder of Taoism is believed by many religious historians to be Lao Tze, in the 6th century BC. Lao Tzu was a philosopher and sage. In ancient China, Lao Tzu was famous for his wisdom. Taoism teaches that everyone must try to acquire happiness and immortality, which could be achieved through proceedings like; medical treatment, breathing techniques, meditation, gymnastics, communal funeral etc.
Taoists worship more deities than the followers of almost any other religions. Some deities are ancestors and others are the spirits of famous persons. Yu Huang is the great High God of the Taoists. Taoist ethics emphasize the ‘Three Jewels of the Tao’: compassion, moderation and humility.

Temples
Some of the famous temples on Taoism are- Baiyun Temple known as White Cloud in Beijing, Baxian Temple- Eight Immortals in Shaanxi, Daoyuan -Taoist Temple in Shangdong and Purple Heaven Temple on Mt. Wudang in Hubei.