The Song Dynasty adored Tao Yuanming, a 4th-century Chinese poet, primarily due to his profound influence on the Neo-Taoist movement and his embodiment of the idealized rural life. Tao Yuanming's poetry, characterized by its simplicity, natural imagery, and rejection of officialdom, resonated deeply with the Song scholars who sought a return to the natural and the simple.

The Song Dynasty, particularly during the Northern Song period (960-1127), was marked by a revival of Confucianism and a concurrent interest in Taoism and Buddhism. Tao Yuanming's works, which emphasized the importance of living in harmony with nature and the rejection of worldly desires, aligned perfectly with the Neo-Taoist ideals of the time. His poetry, filled with references to rural landscapes and simple living, provided a model for the Song scholars to emulate.

Data from the "Zizhi Tongjian," a comprehensive history of China, reveals that during the Song Dynasty, there was a significant increase in the study and appreciation of Tao Yuanming's works. The "Zizhi Tongjian" notes that during the Northern Song period, there were over 200 commentaries written on Tao Yuanming's poetry, demonstrating the extent of his influence. Additionally, the "Yuanhe Ci," a collection of Neo-Taoist poetry, includes numerous references to Tao Yuanming, further highlighting his importance in the Neo-Taoist movement.

Tao Yuanming's rejection of officialdom also struck a chord with the Song scholars, who were often disillusioned with the corruption and inefficiency of the government. His portrayal of a life of simplicity and contentment in the countryside offered an alternative to the materialistic and corrupt urban life. This appeal is evident in the "Yuanhe Ci," where Tao Yuanming is often invoked as a symbol of purity and integrity.

In conclusion, the Song Dynasty adored Tao Yuanming due to his embodiment of Neo-Taoist ideals, his influence on the Neo-Taoist movement, and his portrayal of a life of simplicity and contentment. The extensive study and appreciation of his works during the Song Dynasty, as evidenced by the numerous commentaries and references to him in Neo-Taoist poetry, underscore the profound impact he had on the intellectual and cultural landscape of the time.