Taoist master: Chinese Taoism lacks talents
- By Zhang Rui
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E-mail China.org.cn, March 13, 2014
Zhang Jintao, vice president of the China Taoist Association, told China.org.cn yesterday that a lack of talent and misunderstandings are preventing the development of Taoism in China, though the traditional religion is a pivotal part of Chinese traditional culture.
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Zhang Jintao says China Taoism lacks talents [Photo/China.org.cn] |
"The development of the five major religions in China has not been balanced," Zhang said, "We, as the traditional religion and the only Chinese native religion, have had a relatively weak influence. As the central government realizes that traditional culture should be strengthened, it is now a good time for Taoism to develop as it is the most important part of the culture."
However, he pointed out that the lack of talents is threatening Taoism's development. "The Ministry of Education has not approved any university degrees or doctorial degrees at Taoist schools, though we have many schools and academies now. If we can offer degrees, more people will come to study Taoism. "
Two kinds of Taoist talents are most urgently needed: researchers and managers, he said. China should strengthen the organization of Taoism and map out a future plan for various groups at national and provincial levels. "China's religious affairs and civil authorities should also consider treating Taoist groups as social groups and help them channel positive energy."
Zhang understood that many people still doubt that the Taoism is associated with traditional Chinese superstition, "Taoism has been interrupted for 40 years. It's very normal for some to say it's superstition since the earliest Taoism comes from the folk legends and beliefs. It's also our problem, we need to promote ourselves and tell the public about the positive side of Taoism."
He said many essential parts of Chinese culture are from Taoism, such as feng shui, healthcare exercise and many more can help to have healthy hearts, good health and also treat the environment and animals well.
Zhang Jintao also revealed that China's third international forum of Taoism will be held in Mount Longhu in Jiangxi Province, the birthplace of Chinese Taoism. Taoists, researchers and academics from 38 countries will be invited to the forum, which will discuss traditional culture and how to preserve one's health using Taoism.
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