The Tao Te Ching The Zhuangzi Both of these were written in China, a
little over 2000 years ago, and represent the major literary sources of all branches of Taoism. Laozi, the alleged author of the Tao Te Ching, has even acquired the status of a deity in Chinese folk Taoism. However, to us these texts are mainly a source of inspiration. They were certainly written by human beings (although nobody knows for sure who the authors were), so there is nothing "divine" or "sacred" about them. If you want to learn about Taoism first hand, studying these books is very useful. Several translations are available, on the web, and as actual books. If you prefer an easy-to-read introduction into the basic concepts of Taoism, we recommend The Tao of Pooh (by Benjamin Hoff) The following book is a pretty complete account of Taoism, its history, different sects, and contemporary practices. It also includes many of Taoism's more esoteric aspects, to which the New Taoist Community does not subscribe (see basic tenets). The Shambhala Guide to Taoism (by Eva Wong) |
