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Rituals and Worship



Sacred Time

Sacred time is experienced when one is aligned with the movement of nature through its regular cycles. It is also experienced as a return to the state of the cosmos before creation occurred.

Sacred Space

Before Taoist ritual begins, a sacred space is created that links heaven and earth. Mountains and caves are also considered sacred spaces, and are often occupied by Taoist hermits.

Rites and Ceremonies

Taoist rituals are elaborate dramas, lasting over several days, incorporating costume, music, recitations, and stylized movements, and culminating in an ascent to the gods to present a written memorial on behalf of the participants.

Worship and Devotion in Daily Life

Lay people may consult a Taoist priest when they have an illness or a problem. Priests participate in daily rituals of self-cultivation to prepare themselves spiritually for their role.

Symbolism

There are a multitude of Taoist symbols, some representing immortality, others related to nature or the stars. A constellation of symbols revolving around writing is essential to Taoism.

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