Another great article by guest writer Daniel Otero. Want to contribute local info? Let us know!
See end of article on directions and visitor information about Taogong Temple (陶公庙)
BY DANIEL OTERO
WNIC GUEST WRITER
Taoism is also called Daoism, and it can be considered by some to be a philosophy, way of life, religion, and philosophers like Lao Tzu are considered almost prophet or godlike. This Chinese philosophy it set by an ancient set of principles which haven't changed into the Twenty-first Century, that being: humility, humanity and piety. That is why, Taoism can manifest itself with a deep sense of respect and a kind of religious way in behavior.
This path or way represents everything which surrounds us in daily life, not only in nature; but the respect for humanity, the world, the universe we live in, and its the source of all things to be considered throughout our existence. We aren't just passing through just to destroy everything, but we ought be guided by a moral compass for peace and to preserve what is around us. Therefore, this will allow us to understand/better comprehend and live in harmony amongst others, and it will align with our balance in life. It isn't a perfect philosophy; however, it is what we strive for when we are intending to modify any negative behavior. Considering everything in the order of the universe, and at the same time, learning to deal more with self in calmness than the outside world.
The mystery of Taoism and Lao Tzu began in ancient China by the Sixth Century B.C.E. (Before the Common Era). Taking us back in history over 2,000 years: long before Buddhism, Christianity or Islam came into the scene.
Lao Tzu's story is mired in controversy, there is even talk about him meeting a young Confucius; however, nobody is certain. Others say, historians and scholars alike, that Lao Tzu is the embodiment of several philosophers who came up with this concept when establishing these ideas and developing what was then, the Tao Te Ching. There has even been speculation that Lao Tzu lived up to 150 to 200 years, and this is all part of his godlike legend/persona which has gone around. There is without a doubt that Master Lao or the Old Master created something unique and special for all to follow; whether this was created/done by several men or himself. A person doesn't have to be religious or philosophical, because this all makes perfect sense. It is certainly an idea I can get behind and do my best to follow it--in my life.
Lao Tzu, its founder began that journey by establishing this belief when he wrote the Tao-te Ching at the Hangu Pass, Henan. With the decline of the Zhou Dynasty, Lao Tzu moved further west to establish this religion, belief or ideology. Expressing at one point the following: "Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished." The Lao Tzu's philosophy is logical for our times, when we mostly need it to avoid fueling further the flames of hate, arguments and conflicts: which are indicative to the destruction of our world, and it is something that goes against all the ideas of a Taoist and it creates an unbalanced life, humanity and world.
Presently, the center for a Taoist to do pilgrimage is located in Sichuan, on Mount Qingcheng, and it is one of the things I love about China, that feel and ancientness when walking into temples.
Temples typically in China, when walking into them, range from several hundred years to over a 1,000+years, and that indeed is a statement to an extraordinary and established culture. It is just the beauty of it all, whether a person is spiritual or not, and just a simple admirer of history, such as myself.
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If you are a resident of Changsha, Hunan and can't afford or you don't have time to do the pilgrimage and go to Sichuan, there is a Taoist temple here in the Panli, Changsha County area for those who enjoy the pleasures of peace/tranquility, spirituality and culture.
Furthermore, it is a small temple; however, it is absolutely gorgeous! This temple spans approximately 1,400 years (established during the period of the Southern Dynasties, particularly the Jin Dynasty) and it is beautiful to say the least--in my point of view. It is a place to worship, meditate, respect and admire in silence.
However, one brief suggestion, I found the Temple during the National, Spring Festivals and other Chinese holidays to be rather cluttered, polluted, messy and noisy. Therefore, please visit outside of these holidays to experience a less commercial-crowd gathering, and a greater atmosphere for tranquility and peace.
Thank you for reading and please enjoy!
Get there
Changsha
> Location of 陶公庙
The Taogong Temple cost only five-yuan for the entrance, and if a person doesn't drive, there is always Changsha Metro Line 6 (Shaoguan Station). From the Shaoguan Station, there is a 20-minute walk to the Temple.
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