The evolution and structure of Taoist rituals

Abstract

This article describes Taoist ceremony emergence and evolution, as well as the key persons in its development. It pays special attention to the classification of rituals as well as different kinds of them, particularly to zhaijiao prayers, one of the most important prayers in Taoist prayer services. Moreover the article provides an overview of the main sources of Taoist ceremony. Except for the actual Taoist ceremony practices, these rituals were to a great extent influenced by the Chinese culture ideas, some practices of wuxi magicians and by some Buddist statements.

Keywords:

China, Taoism, the ritual