Taoist Faith Resources

Taoism (Daoism) includes prayers, chants, and meditative texts that seek harmony, peace, health, and alignment with the Tao (Dao)—the Way that underlies all of creation. As with several other traditions, there is no single universal Taoist prayer, but there are many prayers and liturgical texts used in temples and by practitioners.

Taoist View of Comfort

The Tao Te Ching frequently encourages finding peace by trusting the natural order rather than striving against it. Two well-known passages say:

“The soft overcomes the hard.”

“Knowing contentment brings lasting peace.”

Taoist Faith Resources

Prayer for Peace and Harmony

A common Taoist aspiration is:

May Heaven and Earth be in harmony.
May all people live in peace.
May our hearts be calm.
May our actions follow the Way.
May all beings flourish together.

Although this is not a fixed ancient liturgical prayer, it faithfully reflects central Taoist themes.

Taoist Faith Resources

A Reflection from the

Tao Te Ching

Attributed to Laozi:

If there is peace in the heart,
there will be harmony in the home.
If there is harmony in the home,
there will be order in the nation.
If there is order in the nation,
there will be peace in the world.

This modern paraphrase captures the Taoist idea that outward peace begins with inner harmony. It is inspired by Taoist principles rather than being a direct translation from the Tao Te Ching.

Taoist Faith Resources

Taoist Temple Prayer

In Taoist worship, prayers commonly ask for:

• Peace in the family

• Good health

• Harmony with Heaven and Earth

• Wisdom

• Protection from misfortune

• Blessings for the community

An example is:

May Heaven’s blessings descend upon all.
May our hearts be tranquil.
May our homes be peaceful.
May the world live in harmony.