Lao Tzu (Chinese: 老子, pinyin Lǎozi, Wade-Giles Lao Tzu; Romanized also as Lao Tse, Lao Tu, Lao-Tsu, Laotze, Laosi, Laocius, and other variants) is one of the most prominent figures of Chinese philosophy, whose historical existence is uncertain. The Chinese tradition places his life in the 6th century BC, many modern sinologists move his life to the 4th century BC, or consider it a compilation of figures of several philosophers from these periods. He is the legendary founder of Taoism and the author of its fundamental treatise Tao Te Ching.
Exploring the philosophical and religious foundations of Taoism, this ancient text presents 81 chapters that delve into the concept of 'Tao' through a poetic and paradoxical lens. Attributed to Lao Tzu, it invites readers to contemplate the essence of existence and the interplay between nature and humanity, making it a profound guide for living in harmony with the world.
The Tao Te Ching, written around 300BC, describes the fundamental beliefs of Taoism, addressing how to live a simple, peaceful and harmonious life, how to rid oneself of desires and institutions that promote greed. This traditional Chinese-bound dual-language edition presents the original Chinese text with a new translation on the facing page.
This edition presents the time-honored translation by James Legge with his original notes on the Tao Te Ching. Also included is the essay on early Chinese philosophy by renowned scholar and teacher Daisetz Teitaro Suzuki.
The boxset features three influential spiritual texts: the Tao Te Ching, a foundational work of Eastern philosophy emphasizing simplicity and humility; The Prophet, a poignant prose poem offering wisdom on life's milestones; and The Egyptian Book of the Dead, an ancient guide for the deceased navigating the underworld. Each volume is elegantly bound in silk with gold embossing and includes full-color illustrations, making this collection a beautiful and collectible resource for those interested in ancient spiritual traditions.
Exploring the essence of existence, this ancient text advocates for a return to natural balance by shedding societal constraints. Attributed to the philosopher Lao Tzu, it emphasizes living in the present and achieving freedom from desire, fostering a state of humble simplicity and peace. Rich in poetic language and paradox, it encourages deep reflection and interpretation. Its influence spans across cultures and disciplines, impacting religious thought, political theory, and the arts for centuries, highlighting its timeless relevance.
This translation of a sixth-century B.C. classic from Chinese Taoism by Charles Johnston provides not only the text itself but also insightful commentary and interpretation. Johnston, known for his expertise in Eastern spiritual writings, aims to facilitate personal introspection through his work, making ancient wisdom accessible and relevant to contemporary readers.
Esoteric Classics: Eastern Studies
The book presents a translation of a foundational sixth-century B.C. text of Chinese Taoism by renowned translator Charles Johnston. It delves into Eastern spiritual and religious themes, providing readers with insights into the philosophical underpinnings of Taoism through Johnston's adept interpretation. This work serves as a bridge to understanding ancient wisdom and its relevance in contemporary spiritual practices.
Written over 2,500 years ago, this foundational text of Taoism comprises just 5,000 Chinese characters yet conveys profound wisdom that has influenced countless individuals globally. Its teachings explore themes of harmony, balance, and the nature of existence, making it a pivotal work in world literature and spiritual thought.
The Dao De Jing, also called the Tao Te Ching, was originally written in the 6th century BCE by the Chinese sage Laozi. Only 5,000 Chinese characters long, its concise and beautiful wording and its profound insights into the nature of the universe make it one of the most influential books ever written.This wonderful new book expresses the Dao De Jing in simple, contemporary language, while remaining true to the rhythms and poetic structure of the original Chinese. A key feature of this book is an innovative step-by-step translation that lets the reader not only read the English version, but to gain deeper insights from the original Chinese text even if they don't speak or read Chinese.
An enduring translation of a timeless work, now in a new edition. The Tao Te Ching of Lao Tzu is one of the most widely read and deeply cherished books in the world, a work many consider the wisest book ever written. In his introduction, translator Brian Browne Walker says, "It is less a book than a living, breathing angel." Brian Browne Walker's is one of the few modern English versions to be translated directly from the original Chinese. In his translation, Walker stays close to the direct literal accuracy of the Chinese characters while producing a modern, exceptionally clear version that has the ring and voice of Lao Tzu, a man who may or may not have been a single individual. "I have come to think of Lao Tzu less as a man who once lived," Walker writes, "and more as a song that plays, eternal and abiding."