What is the difference between traditional Taoism and popular Taoism?

Answer 1

Traditional Taoism is derived from Taoist writings, such as the Tao Te Ching (Dao De Jing) by Lao Tzu (Laozi), the writings of Chuang Tzu (Zhuangzi), and the Tao Tsang (Daozang). It is a religious or philosophical teaching that puts great emphasis on the approach one takes to thinking and acting. It is somewhat ambiguous on most of the things Western thinkers consider the basics of religion or philosophy. Its ideas pertain to "effortless action" and "uncarved wood" (meaning simplicity). The basis of the belief is a balance between Tao (Dao), meaning "the way," and Te (De) meaning "virtue."

The term popular Taoism might refer to two things. These share the grafting of traditional Taoism onto other beliefs.

Chinese folk religion, which is so complicated and inconsistent in its beliefs that it has no name of its own, is often referred to in literature as Taoism (and sometimes as Buddhism or Confucianism). It is a set of ancient religions, ancestor worship, animism, shamanism, and magic, mixed to varying degrees with Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism. It accepts many or most of the basic ideas of Taoism, but includes much more. This is practiced in China, and in some Chinese communities outside China.

Taoism has influenced thinking outside China and outside Chinese culture. Many people refer to themselves as Taoist because Taoism has influenced their beliefs profoundly. They many be of many cultures, however, and of many religions. In my experience, these people prefer to take their Taoism from traditional sources, but have other religions, including Christianity, agnosticism, and possibly others.