Tao Te Ching Illustrated: The Way to Goodness and Power

No understanding of Chinese civilisation is possible without a grasp of Taoism, the philosophy that has shaped not just Chinese spirituality but also art, science and politics. And it was in the Tao Te Ching, written around 300BC, that the fundamental beliefs of Taoism were first gathered. This short, wise but very humble book went on to influence on philosophy, religion and politics. In a compellingly simple rhetorical style, the book addresses how to live a simple, peaceful and harmonious life, how to rid oneself of desires and free society of institutions that promote greed.

This dual-language edition of Tao Te Ching presents the original Chinese characters with a new translation on the facing page, and is illustrated throughout to make an attractive gift edition in traditional Chinese hand binding. With a new introduction that discusses the questioned authorship of the text and editorial notes, all 81 brief chapters are included, ranging from advice for politicians to wise words for the everyday person. Of immense influence across millennia, Tao Te Ching Illustrated is a classic text richly deserving of this exquisite edition.

About the Author:

Lao Tzu, or Laozi, is an honorific title meaning ‘Old Master’, and it is unlikely that the Tao Te Ching or Daodejing was written by one person, but if he did exist, his name was Li Er. Traditionally written in the sixth century BCE, there are a number of ancient text sources that have been used to compile this version.