Unit Progress
0% Complete

BUDDHISM

Buddhism in China

Buddhism arrived in China from India around the 1st century CE via the Silk Road. It gradually integrated with Chinese culture, philosophy, and other religions like Daoism and Confucianism, giving rise to distinct Chinese Buddhist schools.

  • Chan (Zen) Buddhism: Emphasizes meditation and insight into Buddha-nature. Famous for its koans (paradoxical anecdotes or riddles) used as meditation aids.

Fun Facts:

  • The famous Shaolin Temple, known for its association with martial arts, practices Chan Buddhism.
  • The White Horse Temple in Luoyang is considered the first Buddhist temple in China, established in the 1st century CE.
  • Many Chinese Buddhist temples serve vegetarian meals to visitors, following the Buddhist practice of non-violence.

Pure Land Buddhism: Focuses on devotion to Amitabha Buddha, with the belief that chanting his name will lead to rebirth in the Pure Land, a place of bliss where enlightenment can be easily attained.

Tiantai: Known for its comprehensive and systematic approach to the Buddhist path, based on the Lotus Sutra.

LETS LEARN!🧠💡

DAOISM / TAOISM

Daoism (Taoism) in China

Daoism is a religious and philosophical tradition of Chinese origin, emphasizing living in harmony with the Dao (Tao), the fundamental nature of the universe. It was founded by the legendary figure Laozi, attributed as the author of the Dao De Jing.

Key Concepts:

  • Wu Wei: The principle of “non-action” or “effortless action” that is in harmony with the natural flow of the cosmos.
  • Yin and Yang: Represents the dual nature of everything in the universe. Harmony between yin and yang leads to health and well-being.
  • Qi: The vital life force that flows through all living things.

Fun Facts:

  • Daoist practitioners often engage in practices such as tai chi, qigong, and meditation to cultivate health and longevity.
  • The Dao De Jing is one of the most translated works in world literature, next to the Bible.
  • Some of China’s most breathtaking temples are Daoist, located in mountains, emphasizing harmony with nature.

Tai Chi Class:

  • Objective: Introduce students to tai chi, a martial art deeply influenced by Daoist principles.
  • Instructions: You will learn about Tai Chi through an instructional video to lead a basic tai chi class for begginers, emphasizing the flow of qi and the concept of wu wei.
  • Discussion: Connect the physical movements of tai chi to the philosophical teachings of Daoism, discussing how the practice reflects the pursuit of harmony with the Dao.

☯️🙏🧘Check out this wonderful video and follow the steps from the Master☯️🙏🧘

White Happy Lunar New Year de Nathalie Sáenz