I like Taoism but confused

[willy1590]

Hey,i was wondering what i can do as a taoist spiritually wise,ritual wise and any ethics that are needed?

[DreadFish]

Best to read the Tao Te Ching and decide. There are various types of Taoism that include, but are not limited to, Philosophical Taoism, which focuses on what is expounded in the Tao Te Ching, and Religious Taoism, which has included folk myths, magic, and deities. Religious Taoism isn't quite as based on the Tao Te Ching, to mu understanding, and is much more influenced by Chinese culture.

Either way, I recommend you read the Tao Te Ching, there are likely online copies if you can't afford a book.

[Straw Dog]

Originally Posted by willy1590

Hey,i was wondering what i can do as a taoist spiritually wise,ritual wise and any ethics that are needed?

I would recommend reading Zhuangzi, the other founder of Taoism although he may not have even known of Laozi. His later students certainly did and meshed ideas presented in both their writings. I think Zhuangzi is more important than Laozi in trying to learn Taoist philosophy and ethics. He's more detailed and technical while still utilizing humor and fiction to get his ideas across whereas Laozi may become too abstract or poetic at times. They do compliment each other I guess in that Yin-Yang kind of way.

[Storm]

If I may intrude...

Read everything you can get your hands on, and take up Sticky Hands or T'ai Chi. You won't grok it until it sinks into your bones.