What are the important symbols in Taoism? What symbol will make you think of Taoism immediately?

In Taoism, there are many important symbols. Some symbols have a profound influence on Taoism. Summing up, there are some main symbols in Taoism as follows:

I. Taiji diagram

The Taiji diagram, also known as the Yin-Yang symbol.
It is composed of a black and a white fish-like pattern. The black part represents yin, and the white part represents yang. The two parts are intertwined and in a state of dynamic balance.
The Taiji diagram reflects the ancient Chinese philosophical concept of yin and yang. Yin and yang are two opposing yet complementary forces in the universe. They represent various pairs of opposites such as dark and light, soft and hard, female and male. The Taiji diagram symbolizes the cyclical changes and harmonious coexistence of yin and yang.
It has had a profound influence on traditional Chinese culture, including philosophy, art, medicine, and martial arts.

II. Bagua

The Bagua, also known as the Eight Trigrams, is an important symbol in traditional Chinese culture.
It consists of eight trigrams: Qian (Heaven), Kun (Earth), Zhen (Thunder), Xun (Wind), Kan (Water), Li (Fire), Gen (Mountain), and Dui (Lake). Each trigram is represented by a set of three solid or broken lines.
The Bagua is closely related to ancient Chinese philosophy, divination, and cosmology. It is used in traditional Chinese thought to explain natural phenomena, human affairs, and the operation of the universe. In divination systems such as the I Ching (Book of Changes), the Bagua is used to analyze and predict events.
The Bagua also has applications in traditional Chinese martial arts, architecture, and feng shui. It represents different qualities and energies, and is believed to have an impact on people's lives and environments.

III. Talismans

It is a special symbol in Taoism. It is usually composed of characters, graphics, lines, etc. It is considered to have mysterious power and can exorcise evil spirits, cure diseases, and pray for blessings. There are many kinds of talismans with different forms. In Taoism, there are mainly talismans for protecting houses, exorcising evil spirits, talismans for peace, talismans for attracting wealth, talismans for marriage, talismans for literary prosperity, talismans for curing diseases, talismans for Tai Sui, and so on.

IV. Ruyi

In Taoism, the ruyi (scepter of fortune) is a symbolic object.
Symbolic meaning:
1. It symbolizes good luck and prosperity. Representing the pursuit of a smooth and fortunate life.
2. It also often represents spiritual satisfaction and tranquility. As a tool or symbol associated with Taoist practice, it may imply a state of inner peace and harmony.
Appearance:
Typically made of materials like jade, wood, or metal. It has a curved shape with a long handle and a decorative head. The design is often intricate and elegant.

V. Sword

In Taoism, the sword holds significant importance.
Symbolic meaning:
1. As a symbol of power and authority, it represents the ability to cut through ignorance and evil. It is believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits and negative energies.
2. It also symbolizes wisdom and discrimination. Just as a sharp sword can cut through confusion, so too can wisdom cut through the illusions of the world.
Types and uses:
There are various types of swords used in Taoism, such as the peachwood sword. The peachwood sword is often used in exorcism rituals. Taoist priests may use the sword in ceremonies and rituals to purify spaces and protect people from malevolent influences.

VI. Gourd

In Taoism, the gourd is an important symbolic symbol and ritual implement.
Symbolic meanings:
Fortune and emolument: The gourd is homophonic with "fortune and emolument", implying happiness and wealth, and is regarded as a symbol of auspiciousness.
Longevity: Taoism pursues immortality. In legends, the gourd is associated with immortals and celestial medicines, so it is regarded as a symbol of longevity.
Warding off evil spirits: The gourd is considered to have the function of warding off evil spirits and can resist the invasion of evil forces.
Fairyland: In Taoist legends and culture, the gourd is often associated with fairyland and is regarded as a symbol leading to fairyland.
Uses of ritual implements:
Alchemy container: Taoists often use gourds as containers when making alchemy. They believe that gourds can gather the spiritual energy of heaven and earth and help the success of alchemy.
Medicine container: The gourd is also a container for medicine. In Taoist medicine, gourds are often used to hold medicine for treating diseases and maintaining health.
Ritual implement for protecting houses: In Taoist architecture, gourds can often be seen as the existence of ritual implements for protecting houses. They are considered to be able to expel evil spirits and ghosts and suppress poisonous evils.
Religious ceremonies: In Taoist religious ceremonies, gourds are also widely used, such as being used as ritual implements or offerings in religious services.