The tao of the Tao te ching : a translation and commentary

In this new translation and commentary, LaFargue interprets the concept of "Tao" in the Tao Te Ching as a spiritual state of mind cultivated in a particular school in ancient China a state of mind which also expressed itself in a simple but satisfying life-style, and in a low-key but effective style of political leadership. The interpretation offered here is not only historically accurate, but also conveys the spiritual depth of the Tao Te Ching and its contemporary relevance. The translation is made transparent by a design that presents all of the commentary on the page facing the relevant text. Table of Contents Introduction Translation and Commentary 1. Excellence That Is Not Outstanding 2. Stillness and Contentment 3. Self-Cultivation 4. Knowledge, Learning, and Teaching 5. Majesty That Is Not Awesome 6. The Soft Way 7. Against Disquieting "Improvements" Additional Textual Notes Hermeneutics: A Reasoned Approach to Interpreting the Tao Te Ching Social Background The Composition of the Tao Te Ching: What Kind of Writing Is It? Analyzing Laoist Sayings: Nonliteral Interpretation The Laoist "System" A Note on Translation Topical Glossary Notes References List of Chapters in the Traditional Order