The word "Tao" (道) describes a path or road with two lanes, representing the dual flow of yin and yang. Taoism is called 道教, or the Tao religion, because all Taoist sects follow the same fundamental principle of Tao: the two-way communication between humans and the divine.
Each Taoist sect has its own unique divine source, making every sect a distinct system. Although grouped under the umbrella of Taoism, the divine sources of different sects are independent and unrelated to each other. It’s similar to tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and Apple—they are all part of the tech industry but operate separately. Likewise, being ordained in one Taoist sect (sect A) does not make you part of another (sect B). To begin learning and growing, you must choose a sect, ordain into it, and dedicate your heart to its teachings.
The Tao itself has two ways: yin and yang. Yin represents receiving (not something bad or evil), while yang represents transmitting or outputting (not something inherently good or bright). It’s like a two-way radio, where one person talks and the other listens, taking turns. This cycle of communication between the human and the divine is the essence of Taoism.
A relatable example of divine-human communication is how Taoist believers go to temples to worship and speak with the gods. After receiving help or blessings, they return to the temple with offerings to express gratitude. This creates an ongoing interaction between the human and the divine.
For humans to “hear” or “see” what the divine communicates, we use methods like divination. These tools act as a medium for the gods to project and manifest their messages in a physical form. We interpret these messages using our senses and confirm them with the divine, engaging in a back-and-forth process to arrive at a clear understanding. This two-way communication is at the heart of the Tao.
Being a Taoist is very different from following other religions, and this applies to all Taoist sects. Taoists are more like warriors, not helpless individuals begging higher beings to save them. While we do request help from the divine, we do so by channeling their power through Taoist magic to confront problems and threats directly.
When faced with challenges, Taoists are encouraged to confront them head-on, using the Tao’s power to fight and overcome. In contrast, many other paths might tell you to simply pray, waiting for a god to intervene. Some even blame hardships on past lives, claiming that suffering is deserved and unavoidable. Taoists reject this approach. We believe in taking action to fight through difficulties and improve our lives.
While many religions pray for gods to help them, Taoists send the gods we cultivate to fight evils on our behalf. This proactive, warrior-like mindset is fundamental to Taoism. If you want to be strong, independent, and capable rather than just relying on prayer, then Taoism might be the right path for you.
Taoism is for those who wish to take charge of their lives and combat evil forces head-on. If you have the spirit of a fighter or warrior, Taoism will resonate with you.
There are many Taoist sects, but not all of them are right for everyone. It’s not about choosing the biggest or most famous sect—it’s about finding the one with the teacher and teachings that suit you. After all, if the teacher doesn’t speak your language, or if they’re too busy to guide you personally, what’s the point of joining that sect?
Saam Law Tao may not be large or famous, but we offer authentic teachings with masters who are dedicated to their disciples. Our teachings are available in both English and Chinese, and we use modern technology to bridge the gap of physical distance. This allows believers around the world to learn from home through the internet. Unlike some other groups, we’re not tied to governments or propaganda. Our teachings come directly from our source and are proven by witnessing through real experience, not popular trends.
As your potential master, I always tell my disciples that I only teach what I know deeply. If there’s something I don’t know or am unsure about, I will tell you honestly. In this sect, you’ll have a trustworthy master who cares about your progress and offers genuine teachings that respect your time and effort. By choosing Saam Law Tao, you’re choosing a path that prioritizes authenticity, practicality, and a personal heart-to-heart connection with your master.
Over many years of teaching online, we’ve encountered people hesitant to start their Tao journey due to budget concerns. While we understand this, lowering the requirements too much would attract trolls and low-quality disciples. To balance this, we offer everyone the option of being initiated first. This step is free, requiring only a symbolic offering. By being initiated, you can enter the lineage, become a disciple, gain access to our LINE chatroom, and join the community to start learning the basics.
For those who can afford it, you can choose the ordaining route. In this process, you will be initiated automatically during the ceremony. Being ordained means more than just becoming a disciple—it is a declaration of your choice to follow this path as your religion, officially becoming a Taoist of Saam Law Tao. Your commitment and determination allow the Tao to take care of you, offering guidance and protection in your life. As a Taoist, you also gain access to more powers within the sect for your Taoist magic!
Whether you choose initiation or ordination, both are excellent starting points for beginning your Tao journey. If you have any questions, feel free to email us directly—we’re here to help!
