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Dating from around 300BC, Tao Te Ching is the first great classic of the Chinese school of philosophy called Taoism. Within its pages is summed up a complete view of the cosmos and how human beings should respond to it. A profound mystical insight into the nature of things forms the basis for a humane morality and vision of political utopia. The ideas in this work constitute one of the main shaping forces behind Chinese spirituality, art and science, so much so that no understanding of Chinese civilisation is possible without a grasp of Taoism. This edition presents the authoritative translation by Arthur Waley, with a new Introduction reflecting recent developments in the interpretation of the work.
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
18 of 18 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
This is the first translation of Tao Te Ching (pronounced Dao De Jing) that I read and I felt that it was superb at the time. However I have since come to doubt the Arthur Waley's translation simply because of his arrogant introduction where he claims that all of the 800-odd translations before his fail to "get to the heart of the Tao Te Ching." As Master Cheng Man-Ching states "Lao Tzu wrote 'My words are very easy to understand' so why are we still left in the dark?"
I suspect the truth is that there is no definitive translation of Tao Te Ching. Instead you have to choose one that is tailored to your specific needs. Waley's serves as a good introduction, but adjusts the text (very, very slightly) to suit the needs of the reader with a grounding in Western schools of philosophy. This is the impression I get.
If you are more interested in the Eastern perspective, especially
the relationship between the Tao and Chi, then I would recommend Cheng Man-Ching's translation with running commentary, titled My Words Are Very Easy To Understand.
I also found Waley's footnotes to be a little obtrusive and not greatly informative. However, these are minor complaints. On the whole I would recommend this translation. Arthur Waley knows more about the Tao Te Ching than I do. But is he a Taoist himself or just a very good scholar? After reading his translation I think you'll know the answer.
I suspect the truth is that there is no definitive translation of Tao Te Ching. Instead you have to choose one that is tailored to your specific needs. Waley's serves as a good introduction, but adjusts the text (very, very slightly) to suit the needs of the reader with a grounding in Western schools of philosophy. This is the impression I get.
If you are more interested in the Eastern perspective, especially
the relationship between the Tao and Chi, then I would recommend Cheng Man-Ching's translation with running commentary, titled My Words Are Very Easy To Understand.
I also found Waley's footnotes to be a little obtrusive and not greatly informative. However, these are minor complaints. On the whole I would recommend this translation. Arthur Waley knows more about the Tao Te Ching than I do. But is he a Taoist himself or just a very good scholar? After reading his translation I think you'll know the answer.
16 of 19 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
This is a very small book but contains very important and interesting material for everyone who sympathises with philosophy or religion. Also a very good self help book giving you deep information on how to empty the mind, become calmer and better.
24 of 29 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
This translation of the book of the way truly captures Lao Tzu's original meanings. Having read many trnslations i have found this to be the best that is out there at the moment. Buy it!
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Most Recent Customer Reviews
Awe inspiring
Not an easy read, but well worth the time taken to provoke your thoughts, and take you to a differnt spiritual level.
Published on 9 Jan 2005
He who has wide learning does not know...
For others like me who are interested in some of the world's most fascinating literatures on politics, war, poetry, culture, etc. Read more
Published on 5 July 2001 by Maquis de la Mer
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