#fyrispirit

[river-in-the-woods]

I’ve just begun studying the Tao (as a philosophy) and I’ve had this feeling I might also need to study Buddhism as well. There’s been moments I feel like the two paths intersect, but provided different perspectives of the same, or, similar picture.

As a Buddhist practitioner, would you say Taoism and Buddhism are two sides of the same coin?

Ah, how are you finding it?

I wouldn't say they're two sides of the same coin. More like they are siblings who have shared experiences, but are also individual and complete in their own right. Both Taoism and Buddhism have philosophies that engage the intellect, as well as their respective social, political, cultural and spiritual aspects. My impression is that they tackle life's issues with slightly different mindsets. Different perspectives, as you say.

I'd encourage you to study both if you have the interest, but I do believe they ultimately lead toward the same thing. Being kind, wise, honourable and skillful, with vast knowledge of the world and deep understanding of themselves, and the will to elevate others – these are qualities of both the Taoist sage and the Bodhisattva.

The thing is, I am a practitioner, not a scholar 😄. I see the value in philosophy and lore insofar as I can understand it and put it to use. If you talk to me about philosophy, I will ask you how it can be used in everyday life.

In that regard, I would say Buddhism is a lot more accessible than Taoism. By and large, Buddhists seem to have a much greater interest in outreach, in spreading the teachings and holding events and gatherings worldwide. With Taoism, one has to invest a lot more time and resources to go beyond a reading list or making offerings at a shrine.

In any case, I encourage you to supplement your learning with action and practice, with others to guide you. These are not only philosophies to be studied, debated or understood only intellectually, but also semantically, experientially. They are meant to engage mind, body, heart and spirit, all.

What you do not learn in the textbook, you will learn from reflection, practice, and engaging with your community. Whichever you choose to pursue should be the one that inspires you to live more fully.