Ch'an & Taoism, relationship

Traditional Shaolin philosophy absorbed a great deal of Taoism. Shaolin emphasized harmony, balance and oneness with Nature. They followed the modified and shortened form of the Dharma. It is nice to see the modern re-created Shaolin bring Ch'an back, but do not ignore the true roots of our heritage. The Sage says, "The present is rooted in the past. It is through these roots we draw nourishment and strength. If you ignore the past you will be robbed of the future. The seeds of our destiny are nurtured by the roots of the past."

May peace and joy be with you.

Shi Bok Se Teung
(Descendant of Shaolin monks who fled here during Boxer Rebellion)

It may be said that Shaolin Chan mirrors much of what Daosim endorses, but having absorbed something that was not already inherent? It first of all depends on what you mean by "harmony, balance and oneness with Nature". The basic Chan and Daoist understanding may differ quite a bit in regards to that.

Also it is important to note that when in China Chan texts use the term Dao (Chin.: dào 道), it is usually a translation corresponding to the Sanskrit term Mārga, which refers to the Buddhist "path", and has nothing to do with the more abstract and spiritual meaning of "the Dao" as treated in Daoism.

The two are often conflated due to this misinterpretation.


By "they", you refer to Shaolin? In what way do you mean a modified and shortened form of the Dharma?




SCC

Edited by SCC. - 10/4/2011, 20:04