The Essential Tao : An Initiation into the Heart of Taoism Through the Authentic Tao Te Ching and the Inner Teachings of Chuang-Tzu [B1510]

1998 HCDJ Castle Books edition of the 1992 translation, in excellent condition. An initiation into the heart of Taoism through the authentic Tao Te Ching and the inner teachings of Chuang Tzu. Cleary's insightful translation of these two classic Chinese texts is further enhanced by his informative introduction and commentary. The two ancient Taoist classics delve into topics such as politics and economy, managing stress and health, and psychology and mysticism - and are proving remarkably appealing and relevant today. "It is magnificent and grandiose, outrageous and funny, sharp and acerbic, dreamy and playful".--Brother David Steindl-Rast, Benedictine Monk.

From Amazon/GoodReads reviews: "Cleary is hands down, by far and away the best translator of ancient Chinese texts... period! His translations are so close to the richness of Chinese that one can decipher the lesser meanings hidden within of the Tao de Ching. Like unlocking a door to somewhere else, Cleary brings true indigenous Chinese philosophies to life in this transformative text. It is a top 5 if I had to run out the door.. it will never get old, ever!"; "Good reading, learned a lot from it. Friends loved it too. Interesting book if you care for Eastern philosophy"; "Fascinating text, and clear explanations given by the author for the symbolism."; "Thomas Cleary has done well by his readers with his translations of the "Tao Te Ching" and "Chuang Tzu" in his "The Essential Tao." As the author notes, the origins of Taoism are to be found in the political strife and discord that enveloped China in the time of Lao-Tzu. Hence, it is grounded in flux, the emptiness of all things, and the need for harmony in political and social life."; "A book that is at my fingertips at all times. No matter where I open the book there is something that helps me with what I'm dealing with."