Tao Te Ching

by Lao Tzu
Tao Te Ching cover
Good Books rating 4.67
Philosophy
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Paperback • £4.99–£21.00 Hardback • £8.99–£23.00
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  • ID: 5353
  • Added: 2025-10-23
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9798710435205
  • Published: 2021-02-17
  • Formats: 17
  • Reviews: 3

The Tao Te Ching is an ancient Chinese text attributed to Lao Tzu, offering timeless insights into the philosophy of Taoism. It emphasizes the concept of 'wu wei,' or non-action, suggesting that true virtue and peace come from aligning with the natural flow of the Tao, the universal force that governs all things. The book delves into the idea that human-made laws and efforts often disrupt this natural harmony, advocating instead for a life of simplicity and spontaneity. Written during a time when Lao Tzu observed society drifting away from nature's balance, the Tao Te Ching serves as a guide to returning to the fundamental principles of the universe. Its teachings encourage readers to embrace the Tao's essence, finding power and success not through striving, but through understanding and accepting the natural order of life.

Reviews
Reddit - r/taoism · u/unknown · 2025-01-01
beautiful 5.00

The Tao Te Ching is described as the most beautiful book the reviewer has ever read, with its 81 verses unlocking deeper meanings upon reflection. The book is celebrated for its poetic and philosophical depth.

On Reddit, a user shares their profound appreciation for the Tao Te Ching, calling it the most beautiful book they have ever read. They highlight the book's 81 verses, which they believe unlock deeper meanings and insights with each reading. The reviewer is particularly drawn to the poetic and philosophical depth of the text, finding it to be a source of continuous inspiration and wisdom. The community seems to share this enthusiasm, engaging in discussions about the book's timeless relevance and the transformative impact it has on their lives.

Quick quotes

    The Tao Te Ching is the most beautiful book I've read.

    It's 81 verses in total. The beauty gets unlocked when you suddenly realize that as if you are reading ...

    It's a book that you can read over and over again and still find new meanings and insights.

Planksip · 2024-12-11
amazing 4.50

The reviewer is amazed at the lack of awareness about the Tao Te Ching among their peers, highlighting its profound wisdom and timeless relevance. The book is praised for its ability to offer guidance and insight into modern life.

A reviewer on Planksip expresses their surprise that more people, especially those of their generation, have not read the Tao Te Ching. They emphasize the book's profound wisdom and its timeless relevance, which they believe can offer valuable guidance and insight into modern life. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to transcend time and culture, making it a relevant and impactful read for anyone seeking wisdom and understanding. They highlight the book's unique perspective on life and its ability to inspire and transform the reader's outlook.

Quick quotes

    I am amazed that more people have not read this book.

    It's a book that offers profound wisdom and timeless relevance.

    It's a book that can offer valuable guidance and insight into modern life.

The Guardian · 2013-12-27
insightful 4.50

The Tao Te Ching is praised for its timeless wisdom and poetic beauty, offering a guide to living with goodness and integrity. Its verses are seen as a profound treatise on navigating life with simplicity and harmony.

The Guardian highlights the Tao Te Ching as a classic that transcends time, offering wisdom that is as relevant today as it was centuries ago. The review emphasizes the book's poetic nature and its ability to distill complex ideas into simple, yet profound verses. It is seen as a guide to living a life of integrity and harmony, making it a valuable read for anyone seeking spiritual or philosophical insights. The reviewer appreciates the book's timeless message, which resonates deeply with modern readers, providing a sense of comfort and guidance in an increasingly complex world.

Quick quotes

    Tao Te Ching translates very roughly as 'the way of integrity'.

    In its 81 verses it delivers a treatise on how to live in the world with goodness and integrity.

    It is a book that offers comfort and guidance in an increasingly complex world.

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