Buddhism and Taosim

Paper Summary:

This paper first examines the origins and doctrines of Taoism. The paper describes the Tao and the concept of wu wei. This paper also examines the ethical code of conduct practiced by Taoists. The paper then analyzes Buddhism and describes its origins and chief tenets and beliefs, comparing and contrasting them to those ofTaoism.

From the Paper:

"Buddhist meditation is fundamental in transforming the mind and using it to explore oneself. According to Theravada Buddhism, Buddha taught two types of meditation, samatha and vipassana meditation. Samatha meditatio's primary concern is to cultivate the mind, and to rid it of impurities. In doing this, the mind becomes more tranquil and calm allowing the meditator a more powerful concentration. However, vipassana meditation unlike samatha reveals a deeper understanding of oneself that ultimately leads to Nirvana. Vipassana meditation based on the Four Noble Truths, allows one to reveal the true nature of all things. This leads to a self-realization of how unsatisfactory the material world may be to the self. By practicing both samatha and vipassana meditation, Buddhists are taking an active role in their path for Nirvana. Although ritual and spiritual enlightenment are vital also to the Taoist, Lao Tzu would disagree with Buddha saying that the purpose of meditation would be to preserve the physical and mental state of the body that leads to immortality."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Buddhism-MSN Encarta. 3 Dec. 2008. <http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761552895/buddhism.html>.
• Tao Te Ching. 4 Dec. 2008 <http://www.sacred-texts.com/tao/taote.htm>.
• Watts, Alan Wilson. The Philosophy of the Tao. May 1957.

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