Daoist Writs and Scriptures as Sacred Beings. Issue 1 (24th June 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kim, Jihyun
• Is Part Of: Postscripts. Volume 10:Issue 1/2(2019)
• Page Start: 122
• Page End: 143
• Publication Date: 2019-06-24
• Subjects: sacred writs -- visualization -- veneration of scripture -- qi -- recitation -- daoist scripture; Religious literature -- History and criticism -- Periodicals; Sacred books -- History and criticism -- Periodicals; Religion and society -- Periodicals; 201.705
• DOI: 10.1558/post.38025
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1743-887X

Abstract

Abstract : The formation and solidification of canonical scriptures in Daoism facilitated the establishment and development of the religious tradition. In particular, medieval Daoism was grounded on a unique conception of writs and scriptures. The Daoist concept of scripture is founded on a belief system in which letters and sounds are particular forms of qi, or the omnipresent "pneuma and energy." Such a way of thinking provides a lead for understanding the Daoist veneration of scriptures and other various practices. The aim of this paper is to explore the characteristics of Daoist canonical scriptures as "sacred beings, " mainly through an investigation of the Daoist perspective on scriptures, scripture-worship, and the relationship between scripture and practice.