TAOISM:
the indigenous Chinese RELIGION which grew out of earlier SHAMANISM and magical
CULTS combined with MYSTICAL elements in the PHILOSOPHY of LAO TZU and CHUANG TZU. It
originally aimed at the realization of perfect happiness and the prolongation of life
through unity with the TAO by practicing non-activity, non-interference, and humility
while renouncing force, pride and self-assertion. The techniques used included ALCHEMY,
ASCETICISM, health and dietary rules, a Chinese FORM of YOGA, MAGIC, petitionary PRAYER
and the WORSHIP of powerful deities.
