Taoism
The core beliefs of Taoism are:
- Respect for Nature: live in harmony with nature rather than try to control it.
- Governments are unnatural and are the cause of many problems.
- Reject conflict and strife.
- The Yin/Yang (symbol of Taoism) represents a balance between opposing forces in nature e.g. dark/light, male/female.
Initially it was neither monotheistic nor polytheistic, but later became polytheistic.
How it Emerged
Taoism was founded by Lao Tzu in China around 500 BC, and emerged as opposition to Confucianism. The ideas in Taoism later blended with the ideas in Confucianism.
Geography
Most Taoists today live in south-east Asia, however, there are Taoists scattered globally due to the teachings being suitable for men and women everywhere, no matter what their race, culture or creed might be.
Sacred Text
The Sacred Text of Taoism is the Tao Te Ching. Listen to a recording of it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGKp_jT198o&feature=youtu.be
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGKp_jT198o&feature=youtu.be