Taoism is a Chinese philosophical tradition that emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao. This means living a simple life, in balance with nature. Taoists believe that humans should avoid greed, violence, and waste. Instead, they should focus on living a life of peace, compassion, and simplicity.
Best Books On Taoism
Are you in search of the best books on Taoism? In this article we have compiled a list of best books on Taoism. We hope you will like our list. We have compiled this list based on several factors like content, book length, ratings and reviews.
1. Tao Te Ching
The Tao Te Ching is the number one best book on Taoism in our list. It is authored by Lao Tzu.
This book offers guidance on how to live in harmony with the Tao, or the natural order of the universe.
The book is divided into 81 chapters, each of which contains wisdom on a particular aspect of life.
Some of the topics covered include the nature of the Tao, the importance of humility, the need for simplicity, and the dangers of greed.
The Tao Te Ching is a timeless work of wisdom that can be applied to any situation in life.
2. Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life
Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life: Living the Wisdom of the Tao is authored by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer.
This book explores the ancient wisdom of the Tao Te Ching and how its insights can be applied to our modern lives. Dr. Dyer believes that when we live in harmony with the Tao, we can achieve anything we want in life.
The book is divided into two parts. In the first part, Dr. Dyer explains the basic principles of the Tao and how they can be applied to our lives.
In the second part, he provides an interpretation of the Tao Te Ching for modern readers.
The author’s interpretation of the Tao is based on his own experience and understanding of the Taoist philosophy. He has written this book for those who are interested in learning more about the Tao and how to apply its concepts to their own lives.
3. 365 Tao: Daily Meditations
365 Tao: Daily Meditations is a book of daily meditations based on Taoism. The author of this book is Ming-Dao Deng. The meditations are brief and cover a wide range of topics.
The book is divided into 365 meditations, each one focusing on a different aspect of the Tao. The meditations are meant to be read one per day, and each one includes a short reading, a meditation, and a question to ponder.
The book helps the reader to connect with their own inner wisdom, and to find peace and balance in their life.
The meditations are divided into four seasons, each with its own focus. In spring, the focus is on growth; in summer, on abundance; in fall, on harvest; and in winter, on rest and reflection.
4. Awaken Healing Through the Tao
Mantak Chia's Awaken Healing Energy Through The Tao is a comprehensive guide to the practice of Taoist energy cultivation, also known as ‘qigong.’
The book begins with a brief history of the Taoist tradition and an overview of the theory behind energy cultivation.
Chia then provides step-by-step instructions for a variety of qigong exercises, including those for cultivating ‘sexual energy.’
The book also includes a section on meditative practices and a directory of qigong resources.
5. The Secret of the Golden Flower
The Secret of the Golden Flower is a Chinese book of life that contains philosophical and spiritual teachings.
Richard Wilhelm and C. G. Jung translated the book into English, and it provides insights into the Chinese way of thinking about life.
The book tells the story of a Chinese man who embarks on a spiritual journey to find the secret of the golden flower, which is said to be the key to immortality. Along the way, he learns about the different aspects of the Chinese psyche and the importance of balance in one's life.
He also discovers the power of meditation and the role that it plays in achieving inner peace.
6. Tao Of Pooh
Tao of Pooh is recognized as the best book on Taoism for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Authored by Benjamin Hoff, this delightful and insightful book cleverly illustrates the principles of Taoism through the familiar character Winnie-the-Pooh. The book uniquely blends philosophy, wisdom, and humor, making complex concepts approachable and relatable. It highlights Taoist concepts such as simplicity, mindfulness, natural living, and harmony with the universe through charming and memorable anecdotes from Pooh’s adventures.
The book comprises several engaging chapters that explore Taoist philosophy in a conversational and accessible style. The latest edition of this classic was published in 2019. This compact yet profound book has 176 pages, making it an easy but enriching read. It is widely available in multiple formats.
Length: 176 Pages
Available Formats: Kindle eBook, Paperback, Audiobook
Latest Version: 2019 Edition
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
7. A Thousand Names for Joy
In A Thousand Names for Joy, Byron Katie and Stephen Mitchell explore the idea that true joy comes from living in harmony with the way things are.
The book is divided into four sections: The Nature of Joy, The Practice of Joy, The Path of Joy, and The Fulfillment of Joy.
Each section contains a number of essays and exercises designed to help readers find more joy in their lives.
opics include letting go of attachments, dealing with difficult emotions, and finding meaning in everyday experiences.
The book also includes a number of quotes and stories from people who have found joy in their lives despite difficult circumstances.
8. Taoist Yoga: Alchemy & Immortality
Taoist Yoga: Alchemy & Immortality is a book written by Lu K'uan Yu (Charles Luk) that details the practices of Taoist yoga and alchemy.
The book starts off with an introduction to the history and philosophy of Taoism before diving into the practices of Taoist yoga and alchemy.
Taoist yoga is said to help practitioners cultivate vital energy (qi) and achieve immortality. Taoist alchemy is said to be able to transform lead into gold and extend one's life.
The book provides instructions on how to perform both Taoist yoga and alchemy, as well as tips on how to live a healthy lifestyle according to Taoist principles.
9. The Unbound Soul: A Visionary Guide to Spiritual Transformation and Enlightenment
The Unbound Soul is a book about spiritual transformation and enlightenment. The author, Richard L Haight, is a spiritual teacher and counselor who has helped many people achieve these states.
The book begins with a description of what enlightenment is and why it is so important. It then goes on to explain the process of spiritual transformation, including the role of meditation and other practices.
The book includes many helpful exercises and tips for those who are seeking to transform their lives.
10. Opening the Dragon Gate: The Making of a Modern Taoist Wizard
Chen Kaiguo and Zheng Shunchao's Opening the Dragon Gate: The Making of a Modern Taoist Wizard is a fascinating account of the authors' experiences training under the late Taoist master, Zhang Sanfeng.
The book offers readers a rare glimpse into the secretive world of Taoist magical practices, which the authors believe have the power to transform the lives of those who learn them.
The book begins with an overview of Zhang Sanfeng's life and teachings, which the authors believe are relevant to anyone interested in self-transformation.
They then describe their own experiences training under Zhang, sharing what they learned about energy cultivation, qigong, meditation, and other Taoist practices.
The authors believe that the methods they learned from Zhang can be used by anyone, regardless of their background or beliefs.
They offer readers practical advice on how to begin practicing Taoist magic, and provide insights into the challenges and rewards of a life dedicated to self-transformation.
So that was our take on what we found to be the best books on Taoism. Hope this helped you find what you were looking for. Wish you the best. Cheers, Team Ranking Books.