Spirit mediums not related to Taoism

The Taoism Association of Malaysia (TAM) council clarified that spirit mediums are not part of Taoism.

“Since its founding, Taoism has upheld the belief in the profound and mysterious Dao, practising the teachings of purity and non-action, and striving to achieve a state of oneness with the Dao.

“Our association must clarify that Taoism is distinct from folk beliefs, and many elements of folk beliefs actually contradict Taoist doctrines and teachings, including the practice of spirit possession,” the association said, reported Sin Chew Daily. 

“There has never been a practice of “inviting gods to possess someone and take action,” the association added. 

Chinese mediums would often invite deities to possess them, allowing the medium to act on the deity’s behalf.

The TAM council was responding to a recent Sin Chew Daily column that linked the practice of spirit mediums with Taoism.

TAM stated that Chinese religion is generally divided into three categories—Chinese Buddhism, Taoism, and Chinese folk beliefs—with spirit mediums falling under the latter.

Taoism is a philosophical and religious tradition that originated in ancient China. Central to Taoism is the concept of the “Tao” (or “Dao”), which means “the Way” or “the Path.”

The Tao represents the fundamental principle that underlies and unites all aspects of the universe.

Practitioners seek to align themselves with the Tao through practices like meditation, self-discipline, and understanding nature.

Key texts in Taoism include the “Tao Te Ching,” attributed to Laozi, and the “Zhuangzi,” attributed to Zhuang Zhou. 

These texts offer insights into the nature of the Tao and guidance on how to live a life in accordance with it.