Tao Teh Ching

Lao Tzu

Translated by John C. H. Wu

Softbound

$11.95

This is a masterful translation of one of the greatest spiritual works of all time - an ideal introduction if you are new to it, a wonderfully refreshing rendition if you are already familiar with it.

Written more than two thousand years ago, the Tao Teh Ching or "The Classic of the Way and Its Virtue" has probably had a greater influence on Asian thought than any other single books. It is also one of the true classics of world literature. According to Lao Tzu, to follow the Tao or Way of all things and realize their true nature is to embody humility, spontaneity, and generosity.

Everyone knows in a vague way that the Tao Teh Ching is poetic, and indeed that it is great poetry. We all know that it usually impresses Westerners as more than a trifle quietistic. Hence we treat it with condescension as a quaint impractical document of an ancient day when no one bothered much about progress. Perhaps we do not realize that some of the wisdom of the Tao Teh Ching, which so often reminds one of the Sermon on the Mount, is absolutely necessary for us not only to progress but even to survive.

- Thomas Merton

The Shambala Guide to Taoism
A complete introduction to the history, philosophy, and practice of an ancient Chinese spiritual tradition

Eva Wong

$14.95

I love this series of books because, unlike other such series, the authors always have a deep, living relationship to whatever pathway is their subject. In this case, Eva Wong is a practitioner of the Taoist arts and a translator of texts from the Chinese. She is also the author of many popular books on related subjects and brings a thoroughness that is rivaled only by her enthusiasm to this volume. She is also an excellent and interesting writer - believe it or not, this overview is actually a page turner, a book that inspires such interest that it is almost impossible to put down. If you want to learn about Taoism, I can't think of a better place to start. If you are just looking for a good book to read, you've also come to the right place.

The Shambala Guide to Taoism is divided into three parts:

• The History of Taoism - traces the development of the tradition from the shamans of prehistoric China through the classical period, the beginnings of Taoism as a religion, the rise of mystical and alchemical Taoism, and the synthesis of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism.
• Systems of Taoism - explores magical sects, divination practices, devotional ceremonies, internal alchemy, and the way of right action.
• Taoist Practices - discusses meditation, techniques of cultivating the body, and rites of purification, ceremony, and talismanic magic

Included also is a comprehensive bibliography. An outstanding reference work that is also such great reading!