Tao
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Musings of a Chinese Mystic, Chuang Tzu
Musings of a Chinese Mystic is a collection of selections from the philosophical writings of Chuang Tzŭ (Zhuangzi), with an introduction by Lionel Giles. Through reflections, dialogues, and parables, it presents Chuang Tzŭ’s Taoist thought on living according to nature, the relativity of human judgments, freedom from artificial distinctions, and the cultivation of effortless, unselfconscious action. Giles’s introduction places Chuang Tzŭ in the development of early Taoism and explains his relationship to the teachings of Lao Tzŭ. The extracts in this volume are drawn, with one or two very slight modifications, from the translation by Professor H. A. Giles.
T'ai-Shang Kan-Ying P'ien, Paul Carus
T’ai-Shang Kan-Ying P’ien (Treatise of the Exalted One on Response and Retribution) is a Taoist moral text concerned with ethical conduct and the consequences of human actions. It presents guidance on cultivating virtue, avoiding harmful behavior, and living with awareness that good and harmful deeds bring corresponding results. This edition includes the Chinese text, translations, explanatory notes, and moral tales that illustrate its teachings.
Tao Te Ching, Lao-tzu
The Tao Te Ching, along with the Zhuangzi, is a fundamental text for both philosophical and religious Taoism. It also strongly influenced other schools of Chinese philosophy and religion, including Legalism, Confucianism, and Buddhism, which was largely interpreted through the use of Taoist words and concepts when it was originally introduced to China. Many artists, including poets, painters, calligraphers, and gardeners, have used the Tao Te Ching as a source of inspiration. Its influence has spread widely outside East Asia and it is among the most translated works in world literature.
Taoist Prayers, Various
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Daoism (/ˈdaʊɪzəm/, /ˈdaʊ-/), or Taoism (/ˈtaʊ-/), is a philosophical or religious tradition of Chinese origin which emphasises living in harmony with the Dao (Chinese: 道; pinyin: Dào; literally: 'the Way', also romanised as Tao).
Taoist Teachings, Unknown
Taoist Teachings is an English translation with Introduction and Notes by Lionel Giles of selections from the Book of Lieh-Tzu, one of the classic texts of Taoism. Through stories, dialogues, and parables, it explores themes such as living in harmony with nature, the limits of knowledge, human conduct, and the cultivation of the Tao. The work illustrates Taoist philosophy through imaginative narratives rather than systematic argument, making its ideas accessible through example and reflection.
The Sayings of Lao Tzu, Lao-tzu
The Sayings of Lao Tzŭ, translated and introduced by Lionel Giles, presents selections from the Tao Tê Ching and the philosophical teachings traditionally associated with Lao Tzŭ. It explores the Tao as the underlying principle of existence and develops themes of simplicity, humility, non-interference, peaceful conduct, and living in accordance with the natural order. Giles’s introduction also examines Lao Tzŭ’s historical background, the origins and transmission of the Tao Tê Ching, and its place in the development of Taoist philosophy.
The Texts of Taoism Part I, Chuang Tzu
The Zhuangzi (Mandarin: [ʈʂwáŋ.tsɹ̩̀]; historically romanized Chuang Tzŭ) is an ancient Chinese text from the late Warring States period (476–221 BC) which contains stories and anecdotes that exemplify the carefree nature of the ideal Taoist sage. Named for its traditional author, "Master Zhuang" (Zhuangzi), the Zhuangzi is one of the two foundational texts of Taoism, along with the Tao Te Ching.
The Texts of Taoism Part II, Chuang Tzu
The Texts of Taoism, Part II continues the writings traditionally attributed to Zhuangzi, along with several other classic Taoist works. Through dialogues, stories, and reflections, it explores themes of nature, human conduct, knowledge, and the Tao, while also including texts on ethics and spiritual practice. The collection offers a broader view of classical Taoist thought and its literary tradition.
Yang Chu's Garden of Pleasure, Unknown
Yang Chu’s Garden of Pleasure, translated by Anton Forke, presents the Yang Chu chapter of the Lieh Tzu through short dialogues, anecdotes, and reflections. It examines fame, wealth, mortality, personal freedom, and the enjoyment of life, often questioning ambitions that disturb contentment. The work offers a distinctive perspective within early Chinese philosophy, emphasizing simplicity and living according to one’s nature.
Yin Chih Wen: The Tract of the Quiet Way, Paul Carus
Yin Chih Wen: The Tract of the Quiet Way is a traditional Chinese religio-ethical text centered on yin chih, the quiet or hidden practice of virtue and good deeds. Historically widely read and taught in China, it offers practical moral guidance on compassion, generosity, proper conduct, and avoiding harm to others. The volume also introduces the text’s origins, historical importance, and its association with Wen Ch’ang Ti Chün, providing context for its place in Chinese religious and ethical tradition.
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Taoism is an ancient Chinese philosophy and religion emphasizing harmony with the Tao, the natural order of the universe, through simplicity and humility.