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Lao
Tzu / Taoism
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Simple
Taoism : A Guide to Living in the Balance
by C. Alexander Simpkins, Annellen M. Simpkins, C.
Alexander
"Simple Taoism" outlines the background
and development of the philosophy, illustrated with stories to bring
its history to life. The book then explains ways to incorporate the
spiritual themes of Taoism into one's own life.
"The companion books "Simple Zen" and
"Simple Taoism" by husband and wife team C. Alexander
Simpkins Ph.D. and Annellen Simpkins Ph.D. give a clear explanation of
both Zen and Taoism and how to apply their best aspects to your daily
life. In addition to discussions of the philosophical aspects, the
Simpkins also give practical instructions on Taoist exercises such as
meditation, breathing, chi kung, and tai chi chuan. In like manner
they also provide Zen hands-on information on poetry, brush painting,
and martial arts. With over 60 years of combined experience in studies
of the mind, the Simpkins are uniquely qualified writers who present a
clear, concise explanation of the somewhat esoteric topics without
losing any of the beauty or art which makes Zen and Taoism so
appealing to millions of followers around the world. Available from
Tuttle Publishing, and [reasonably priced], these books are an
excellent way to improve both your understanding and your
spirituality." -- Tod Hester
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The purpose of this Web Site is for the discussion
of the true Taoism professed by a great philosopher and humanitarian
Lao Tzu, as well as for the demythologization (doing away with the
wrongful representation) of him and his teaching. He was a great
human being with deep thoughts, not a weirdo whose sayings are
enigmatically and elliptically represented by numerous interpreters.
His thought has a philosophical framework and his book Tao
Te Ching should be translated (interpreted) along this guideline.
In other words, it is a matter of logic rather than whimsy.
It is therefore unwise to versify his sayings before
apprehending his philosophical framework.
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Full Text of the Tao Teh Ching.
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Edited by Steven Ericsson Zenith. Based on
the three part 1924 publication by The Shrine of Wisdom.
Site Includes:
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Excerpt:
The specific date of birth of Lao Tzu is unknown. Legends vary, but
scholars place his birth between 600 and 300 B.C.E. Lao Tzu is
attributed with the writing of the "Tao-Te Ching," (tao-meaning
the way of all life, te-meaning the fit use of life by men, and ching-meaning
text or classic). Lao Tzu was not his real name, but an honorific given
the sage, meaning "Old Master."
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Excerpt:
Although ascetics and hermits such as Shen Tao (who advocated that
one 'abandon knowledge and discard self') first wrote of the 'Tao' it is
with the sixth century B.C. philosopher Lao Tzu (or 'Old Sage' -- born
Li Erh) that the philosophy of Taoism really began. Some scholars
believe was a slightly older contemporary of Confucius (Kung-Fu Tzu,
born Chiu Chung-Ni). Other scholars feel that the Tao Te Ching, is
really a compilation of paradoxical poems written by several Taoists
using the pen-name, Lao Tzu. There is also a close association between
Lao Tzu and the legendary Yellow Emperor, Huang-ti.
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Excerpt:
This story happened in the days of Lao Tzu in China, and Lao Tzu
loved it very much:
There was an old man in a village, very poor, but even kings were
jealous of him because he had a beautiful white horse. Kings offered
fabulous prizes for the horse, but the man would say, "This horse
is not a horse to me, he is a person. And how can you sell a person, a
friend?" The man was poor, but he never sold the horse.
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This page has been designed for the purpose
of organizing the resources on Chinese philosophy that can be found in
the 'cyberspace'. It is my goal in setting up this page to attract more
people, who are interested in searching for the answers of their life,
not to limit themselves within the scope of traditional Western
philosophies, but to open themselves to some alternatives offered by
several schools of Chinese philosophy. But, since there're countless
on-line materials on the Internet that are about Chinese philosophy, and
some of which I am not aware of, I would greatly appreciate it if any of
you can point them out to me. Also, all suggestions and comments are
welcomed and greatly appreciated.
If you want more information on how to read Chinese characters
on-line, please check the Chinese-Language-Related
Information Page.
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This site has sections on Jewish,
Christian,
Islamic,
Hindu,
Buddhist,
and Taoist mystics, including texts.
Site Includes:
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The Taoist Restoration Society is a nonprofit
organization helping to preserve and restore China's Taoist heritage.
Restoration projects, guest lectures, discussion boards, photo library,
personals page, more!
Excerpt:
Taoism is a cornerstone of traditional Chinese
culture. Anyone who loves traditional Chinese culture is highly indebted
to Taoism, whether or not they realize it. Ancient Taoists in search of
Immortality potions gave birth to Chinese science, and are credited with
many medical and scientific discoveries. Chinese culture and art have
always been heavily influenced by Taoist ideas, and Taoism's temples and
monastic complexes gradually became great storehouses of culture, art,
and wisdom. Taoism's influence eventually reached the West, and millions
of Westerners have benefited from exposure to acupuncture, herbalism,
holistic medicine, meditation, and martial arts, all of which are deeply
rooted in the Taoist tradition...
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Traditional Taoist religious and cultural goods.
Everything for a small shrine or a large temple. Create your own
Taoist space today!
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