What are the main sects of Taoism in China today?

It's important to note that the landscape of Taoism in China today is a mixture of historically rooted lineages, modern adaptations, and officially sanctioned organizations. There is no universally agreed-upon list of "main" sects, but the following are considered the most significant:

1.  Zhengyi Dao:

a.  Historical Roots: Descended from the early Celestial Masters, the oldest organized form of Taoism.

b.  Characteristics: Emphasizes ritual, exorcism, communal worship, and talismanic practices. Priests often serve local communities, conducting rituals for purification, protection, healing, and funerals.

c.  Current Status: This is the most prominent and officially recognized sect of Taoism in China today. Zhengyi priests are widely found throughout China, especially in rural areas. They are the main group involved in government-sanctioned Taoist activities and temple management.

d.  Areas of Expertise: Ritual performance, talismanic magic, exorcism, community service, ancestor veneration.

2.  Quanzhen Dao:

a.  Historical Roots: Founded in the 12th century during the Jin Dynasty, a response to the corruption of other sects at the time. Emphasizes inner alchemy  practices for self-cultivation.

b.  Characteristics: Known for its monastic system, with celibate monks and nuns, strict ascetic practices, and emphasis on meditation and internal alchemy. Has a more 'philosophical' slant than Zhengyi.

c.  Current Status: Also officially recognized. The Quanzhen tradition is more structured, with a monastic hierarchy, and generally has a more national focus than Zhengyi. It maintains significant temples and training centers.

d.  Areas of Expertise: Internal alchemy，meditation, monastic life, moral philosophy, and Daoist self-cultivation practices.

3.  Smaller & Regional Lineages:

a.  There are many smaller and more localized Taoist lineages that haven't achieved the national prominence of Zhengyi and Quanzhen. These are often associated with specific temples, mountains, or geographical regions.

b.  Examples include various branches of the Lingbao School, Maoshan Tradition (a branch of Shangqing), and the Southern Traditions.

c.  These lineages may have unique practices, scriptures, or historical figures that have shaped their identity.

d.  Current Status: Their status can range from being unregistered and operating quietly, to having informal recognition at the local level. Some are working to gain official recognition under the umbrella of the China Taoist Association.

e.  Areas of Expertise: Highly varied, reflecting their unique histories and focuses. They can range from healing and medicine to martial arts.

Official Recognition:

● The China Taoist Association: This is the government-sanctioned body that oversees Taoist activities in China. It was established in 1957 and restructured after the Cultural Revolution. It is heavily involved in temple management and priest training.

● Officially Recognized Sects:

○ Zhengyi Dao: The primary sect under the umbrella of the China Taoist Association.

○ Quanzhen Dao: Also a major focus of the Association and is often presented as a complementary tradition to Zhengyi.

● Criteria for Recognition: The Chinese government has strict criteria for allowing religious organizations to operate legally. This can include registering with the local Religious Affairs Bureau, adherence to government policies, and cooperation with the China Taoist Association.

● Significance of Recognition:

○ Official recognition allows for legal temple ownership, training of priests, and the public practice of rituals and ceremonies.

○ It is also a tool for the government to manage and control religious activities within the country.

○ It does not necessarily reflect the actual diversity of Taoist traditions, but it shapes the public perception and official presentation of Taoism.

● Unrecognized Groups: There are many Taoist practices, lineages, and temples outside the official structure of the China Taoist Association. Some operate quietly, while others may face restrictions or even suppression.

Important Points to Remember:

● Blurred Lines: The boundaries between these sects are not always clear-cut. There can be syncretism and blending of practices.

● Modern Adaptations: Many modern practitioners are influenced by multiple lineages and adapt traditional teachings to contemporary contexts.

● Historical Context: Understanding the historical development of these sects is crucial for appreciating their current manifestations.

● Government Influence: The Chinese government's role in managing religion significantly affects the landscape of Taoism today.

In Conclusion:

Zhengyi and Quanzhen are the main, officially recognized, and publicly visible faces of Taoism in China today. Zhengyi is the main force in communities, while Quanzhen has more of a national monastic focus. However, the richness and diversity of Taoist traditions extend far beyond these two major groups. There are many smaller, local, and even underground lineages continuing their unique practices, representing the complex and dynamic nature of Taoism. The future of Taoism will likely be a negotiation between these historic forces and the requirements of a modern state.