When we think of Chinese religious traditions, metaphysical lines get blurred.
What I mean is that the Chinese philosophies of Taoism and Confucianism are less about
dualistic notions of good verses evil but rather focuses on balance and harmony between
the major complementary forces of all of life.
Secondly, Chinese religious and philosophical traditions are quite open to incorporating
ideas and insights from other religions.
For instance, they quite easily blend Buddhist insight on the nature of the self with Taoist
notions of passivity.
It makes great sense to present Taoism and Confucianism together in one chapter, since
they are both based on the two fundamental forces of life, referred to as yin and yang.
Everything in creation, from the natural world, to our personalities, to the phases of the
moon, to the spices used in food, we are told, emerges from the unfolding of these two complementary
forces, yin and yang.
There is one word that best summarizes the goal of ancient Asian philosophies and religions.
That word is harmony.
Harmony keeps society running smoothly.
Harmony guides the chef when creating a meal that balances hot spices and cooling flavors.
Harmony guides the nation vis-à-vis its citizens, with leaders and their people both seeking
to live harmoniously together.
If you travel to Asia or know Asian populations outside of Asia you will find that knowing
Taoism and Confucianism will help you understand the role of parents, filial piety, respect
for authority, and deference demonstrated in these communities.
The East Asian tradition of bowing as a form of respect, a practice that is decreasing
nowadays in modern Asia, illustrates the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships.
Knowing Taoism and Confucianism will dramatically lessen the culture shock typically experienced
by travelers unaware of the importance of deference to elders and maintaining peaceful,
rightly ordered relations.
Of course, no religious tradition is static, and the same applies to Taoism and Confucianism.
In our late-modern era, Taoism and Confucianism are still significant features of East Asian
societies.
Knowing these religious-philosophical systems will help us all appreciate the substructure
of much of the business, cultural, and religious practices in Asia and Asian diasporic communities
worldwide.
Yet today traditional notions of harmony are difficult to sustain, as people seek higher
education, money, and various forms of success that put immense stress on families, societies,
and nations.
Who is God in relationship to the Tao?
Is there a unique East Asian perspective on Jesus Christ?
How Asian is Jesus?
I hope you enjoy this chapter and are challenged and encouraged by the great insights of Taoism
and Confucianism.