In other words: Simply be.įrom the Back Cover The Tao Te Ching, the esoteric but infinitely practical book written most probably in the sixth century B.C. Te-which may be translated as virtue or strength-lies always in Tao meaning the way or natural law. In the clarity of a still and open mind, truth will be reflected. If we watch carefully, we will see that work proceeds more quickly and easily if we stop trying, if we stop putting in so much extra effort, if we stop looking for results. So let us present the same face to everyone and treat them all as equals, however they may behave. Nature provides everything without requiring payment or thanks. Study the natural order of things and work with it rather than against it, for to try to change what is only sets up resistance. Lao Tsu's philosophy is simple: Accept what is in front of you without wanting the situation to be other than it is. Also included is an introduction by the well-known writer and scholar of philosophy and comparative religion, Jacob Needleman. This beautiful oversized edition features over a hundred new photographs by Jane English that help express the vast spirit of the Tao.

Now Jane English and her long-time editor, Toinette Lippe, have refreshed and revised the translation, so that it more faithfully reflects the Classical Chinese in which it was first written, while taking into account changes in our own language and eliminating any lingering infelicities. Book Synopsis For nearly two generations, this bestselling translation of the Tao Te Ching has been the standard for those seeking access to the wisdom of Taoist thought.

Tao tzu