WEEK_16 : Introduction to Taoism and Sikhism

Taoism Introduction:

Taoism is an ancient tradition of philosophy and religious belief that is deeply rooted in Chinese customs and worldview. Taoist ideas have become popular throughout the world through Tai Chi Chuan, Qigong, and various martial arts.

The philosophy grew from an observance of the natural world, and the religion developed out of a belief in cosmic balance maintained and regulated by the Tao. The original belief may or may not have included practices such as ancestor and spirit worship but both of these principles are observed by many Taoists today and have been for centuries.

Taoism exerted a great influence during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) and the emperor Xuanzong (reigned 712-756 CE) decreed it a state religion, mandating that people keep Taoist writings in their home. It fell out of favor as the Tang Dynasty declined and was replaced by Confucianism and Buddhism but the religion is still practiced throughout China and other countries today.

Sikhism Introduction:

The meaning of the word “Sikh” is “student” or “learner.” The area called Northern India is the region in which the Sikh religion was founded. It was founded by Baba Guru Nanak. This religion is different from Islam and Hinduism. It is a monotheistic religion i.e. it’s believers believes in one God and also this religion focuses on the gender equality. Sikhism has three basic principles. The first principle is Meditation or Prayer for seeking God. The second principle is earning by honest and true sources and also sharing the earnings of one’s person with others. The third principle is that the Sikhism rejects racial discrimination and class systems. Sikhism stresses to serve Humanity. Sikhs wears turbans to cover their extensive hair and with regard to God. They have uncut hair, moustaches and beards. Sikhism teaches the principles of which the great democracy is founded. These principles are the principles of Humanity. These include equality, freedom and justice. In the world, the Sikh population is about 25 million. A Sikh is "any human being who faithfully believes in One Immortal Being; ten Gurus, from Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind Singh; the Guru Granth Sahib; the teachings of the ten Gurus and the baptism bequeathed by the tenth Guru; and who does not owe allegiance to any other religion".
 

Download Files

taoism-by-huston-smith.pdf (0.30 MB )

sikhism.pdf (0.29 MB )