Key Concepts in Daoism and Its Historical Figures

Celestial Masters

Also known as the Tianshi, this was the first organized Daoist religious movement, founded by Zhang Daoling in the 2nd century CE. It emphasized faith healing, communal living, and adherence to Daoist scriptures.

De

In Daoism and Confucianism. refers to virtue or moral character. It represents the inherent power or integrity of an individual, aligning with the Dao in Daoist thought.

Highest Clarity

Known as Shangqing, this is a Daoist school that emerged in the 4th century CE, focusing on meditation, visualization, and inner alchemy to achieve spiritual enlightenment and immortality.

Immortal

In Daoism, xian are beings who have achieved eternal life and transcendence through practices such as alchemy, meditation, and virtuous living. They are often depicted in Daoist literature and art.

Libationer

Historically, was a religious official responsible for offering libations (ritual pourings of liquid) to deities or ancestors in Chinese rituals. In the context of the Celestial Masters, the term referred to leaders within the movement.

Lord Lao

A deified version of Laozi, the reputed author of the 'Dao De Jing' and a central figure in Daoism. is venerated as a divine figure embodying the Dao itself.

Orthodox Unity

Also known as Zhengyi, this is a major school of Daoism that evolved from the Celestial Masters tradition. It emphasizes ritual practices and the role of ordained priests in conducting ceremonies for the community.

Queen Mother of the West

Known as Xi Wangmu, she is a prominent goddess in Chinese mythology and Daoism, associated with immortality and residing in the mythical Kunlun Mountains. She is often depicted as a guardian of the peaches of immortality.

Three Pure Ones

The highest deities in the Daoist pantheon, representing the three aspects of the Dao. They are Yuanshi Tianzun (Celestial Venerable of the Primordial Beginning), Lingbao Tianzun (Celestial Venerable of the Numinous Treasure), and Daode Tianzun (Celestial Venerable of the Way and Its Virtue), also known as Lord Lao.

Wuwei

A fundamental concept in Daoism, translating to 'non-action' or 'effortless action.' It refers to aligning with the natural flow of the universe, allowing things to unfold spontaneously without forceful intervention.

Zhang Daoling

A 2nd-century CE figure credited with founding the Celestial Masters movement. He is considered the first Daoist pope and is said to have received a revelation from Lord Lao, leading to the establishment of organized Daoism.

Zhuangzi

An influential Daoist philosopher from the 4th century BCE, known for his eponymous text. His writings use parables and anecdotes to illustrate the relativity of perceptions and the importance of harmonizing with the Dao.

Chronology of Daoism

Laozi born

Confucius

Warring states china

Buddhism in china

Celestial matters movement

Yellow turban revolt "great peace"

Zhang grandson surrenders to Han dynasty

618-907

Tang dynasty transforms Daoism into chinas national religion

Laozi's birthday into national holiday and Daoist canon