Definition

1. Noun:

   • An adherent of Taoism: A person who follows the teachings, practices, or philosophy of Taoism (Daoism), a Chinese religious and philosophical tradition.

2. Adjective:

   • Relating to Taoist philosophy: Pertaining to the philosophical system developed by Lao-tzu (Laozi) and Chuang-tzu (Zhuangzi), which emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao (the Way) through simplicity, spontaneity, and non-action (wu wei).
   • Relating to Taoist religion: Pertaining to the popular Chinese religious system based on the teachings of Lao-tzu but incorporating a pantheon of deities, rituals, divination, and practices aimed at longevity and harmony.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:

  • The hermit was a devout Taoist who lived simply in the mountains.
  • Many Taoists visit the temple for the spring festival.

• Adjective:

  • He studies Taoist philosophy, particularly the concept of wu wei.
  • The Taoist temple was adorned with symbols of yin and yang.

Advanced Usage

• "Taoist priest": A religious officiant in Taoism who performs rituals and ceremonies.

  • The Taoist priest conducted the ceremony for peace and prosperity.

• "Taoist cosmology": The understanding of the universe, its origins, and its fundamental principles (like qi, yin-yang, and the Five Elements) within Taoist thought.

  • The concept of complementary opposites is central to Taoist cosmology.

Variants and Related Words

• Taoism (Daoism) (n): The religious or philosophical tradition itself.

  • Taoism has deeply influenced Chinese culture.

• Tao (Dao) (n): The central concept meaning "the Way" or the fundamental principle of the universe.

  • The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao.

• Taoist temple (n): A place of worship and community for Taoists.

  • We visited a beautiful Taoist temple in the old city.

Synonyms

• Daoist: An alternative spelling and exact synonym for Taoist.
• Follower of Taoism: A descriptive synonym for the noun form.

Related Phrases

• Taoist practices: Refers to activities such as meditation, tai chi, qigong, and alchemical rituals.

  • Meditation and tai chi are common Taoist practices for cultivating qi.

• Taoist texts: The classical scriptures of Taoism, primarily the Tao Te Ching and the Zhuangzi.

  • She is translating ancient Taoist texts.

Adjective

1. of or relating to the philosophical system developed by Lao-tzu and Chuang-tzu advocating a simple honest life
2. of or relating to the popular Chinese religious system based on the teachings of Lao-tzu but including a pantheon of gods along with divination and magic
   • Taoist temples

Noun

1. an adherent of any branch of Taoism