Interpretations, Beliefs and Wisdom of the Taoist Talismans in People’s Republic of China

Abstract

This research article aims to study Interpretations, beliefs and wisdom of the Taoist talismans in People’s Republic of China.  Qualitative research methodology is applied, including document study; in-depth interviews of fourteen informants; and data analysis.  Research findings are reported as a descriptive analysis.

For Interpretations of the Taoist talismans, six forms are found, including multiple or repeating of single Chinese character; drawing of Chinese characters; Chinese characters mixed with images of gods; Chinese characters mixed with images of ghosts; drawing of auspicious animals; and free form images. Three elements of the Taoist talismans are found, namely the drawing; characters; and others.  For beliefs relating to the Taoist talismans, eight aspects are noticed including prevention of risks; a child request; love inspiration; luck in commerce; empowering; bad luck prevention; health blessing; and negative power.  Three causes of beliefs relating to the Taoist talismans are observed, namely the lack of knowledge and fear of power of the supernatural; religious beliefs; and human desires.  Changes of belief in the Taoist talismans are subjected to requirement of the believers and creativity of the Taoist talismans; and commercial beliefs relating to the Taoist talismans. For wisdom conveyed by the Taoist talismans, six aspects are noted including as the medium of a public support; as a spiritual guide to teachings of Taoism; promoting intellectual meditation; as a mean of cultural preservation; a form of artistic creation; and other uses.