“The eighty-one sayings in this volume shine like gems-cut clear and beautiful in every facet . . . . This translation will stand as the perfect rendering of a classic work.”—John Haynes Holmes Lao Tzu was one of the greatest mystics of all time. Legend tells us that he was immaculately conceived by a shooting star. Confucius, who met him only once, likened him to a dragon, the one creature in all creation whose ways he would never understand. Some hold that Lao Tzu was not one man but many men, and the work attributed to him, the Tao Teh Ching, the product of many minds over many centuries. But whether or not the Tao Teh Ching, here presented as The Way of Life, is the author’s own matters little. From its original in sixth-century B.C. China it has come down to us as one of the most powerful testaments ever written to man’s fitness in the universe. The basis of Taoism, one of the world’s great religions, the Tao Teh Ching has been translated more frequently than any other work besides the Bible. Articulating the way of poise, serenity, and complete assurance, it teaches us how to work with the invisible forces of nature, the psyche, and the soul for a more successful life. Not passive contemplation, but creative quietism is the Way of Lao Tzu, and it has never been more relevant than it is today.

"The Way of Life of Lao Tzu was the way of poise, serenity and complete assurance. His gentle warnings on the futility of egoistic struggle have made The Way of Life the basis for one of the world's great religions, Taoism, and one of the most important books that was ever written"--Back cover.

Eighty-one poems present the sacred teachings of Taoism, including simple living, contentment, and prizing culture.

Tao Te Ching, translated here as The Way of Life, is ancient China's great contribution to the literature of mysticism. It contains the time-honored teaching of Taoism, the philosophy and faith of Lao Tzu and other religious hermits in China centuries ago.

In this clarion translation of Laotzu's Tao Te Ching, first published in 1919, Goddard brings the complexity and depth of the ancient philosopher's poetry into the English language, his great love for the topic overcoming the necessary shortcomings of translation. There are three concepts that are essential to the Tao Te Ching-Tao, Te, and Wu Wei-that all have complex meanings that cannot be directly translated, but spiritual seekers and those with an interest in philosophy and religion will find Goddard's treatment of Laotzu lyrical and deeply meaningful. American writer DWIGHT GODDARD (1861-1939) studied at a monastery in Kyoto, Japan, for a year and was among the first Westerners to bring Zen Buddhism to the United States. His most famous book is The Buddhist Bible (1938).

"Ursula K. Le Guin, a student of the Tao Te Ching for more than fifty years, offers her own thoughtful rendering of the Taoist scripture. She has consulted the literal translations and worked with the scholar J. P. Seaton to develop a version that lets the ancient text speak in a fresh way to modern people, while remaining faithful to the original Chinese. This rendition reveals the Tao Te Ching's immediate relevance and power, its depth and refreshing humor, illustrating better than ever before why it has been so loved for more than 2,500 years. Included are Le Guin's own personal commentary and notes along with two audio CDs of the text read by the author, with original music composed and performed by Todd Barton."--Publisher's website.

'Of ways you may speak, but not the Perennial Way; By names you may name, but not the Perennial Name.' The best-loved of all the classical books of China and the most universally popular, the Daodejing or Classic of the Way and Life-Force is a work that defies definition. It encapsulates the main tenets of Daoism, and upholds a way of being as well as a philosophy and a religion. The dominant image is of the Way, the mysterious path through the whole cosmos modelled on the great Silver River or Milky Way that traverses the heavens. A life-giving stream, the Way gives rise to all things and holds them in her motherly embrace. It enables the individual, and society as a whole, to harmonize the disparate demands of daily life and achieve a more profound level of understanding. This new translation draws on the latest archaeological finds and brings out the word play and poetry of the original. Simple commentary accompanies the text, and the introduction provides further historical and interpretative context. ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.

“This book makes an immediate connection with the way I have tried to live my life. The messages can be read again and again to recenter, rebalance, and deepen my understanding. It is definitely something to keep near and to be consulted often.” Helen S. Cooke – PMI Fellow To those who are seeking and believing in the whole person care, balanced life, the natural order, Wu Wei, nurturing, inner peace, happiness, humility, simplicity, adaptability, inspiration, meditation, letting go, detachment, kindness, reflection, enlightenment, self-discovery, being yourself, rejuvenation, spiritual connection, and healing. Immerse yourself in the wisdom of ancient China through the timeless 'Tao Te Ching.' Authored by the legendary philosopher Laozi, this profound exploration transcends the boundaries of time, offering invaluable insights into existence, inner peace, and wisdom. Comprising 81 chapters, the 'Tao Te Ching' covers a spectrum of topics, from the universe and virtue to politics and ethics. Laozi's philosophy, rooted in the concept of the Tao, advocates for a return to simplicity and alignment with the universal source, steering away from the complexities of power and desire. Its influence extends beyond Taoism, shaping major philosophical schools in China. This book provides a contemporary interpretation of Laozi's teachings alongside the original verses, facilitating practical application in daily life. By embracing key concepts, readers can foster well-being, meaningful relationships, and self-discovery. "Moments of Reflection for Inspiration, Enlightenment, and Healing" invites you to revel in the meditative repetition of Laozi's wisdom. Whether pursuing happiness, purpose, or a deeper understanding of existence, this book serves as a gateway to timeless insights that have shaped Chinese culture for centuries. Join the journey toward self-discovery and enlightenment through the profound wisdom of the Tao.