The Tao Te Ching, also known as the Laozi, is one of the most influential works of Chinese philosophy and considered the central text of Taoism. Written by the ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu around the 6th century BC, the work contains 81 verses and has been translated numerous times. One of the most popular versions of the Tao Te Ching is the translation by Gia-Fu Feng and Jane English, first published in 1972.
The Tao Te Ching is a poetic work rooted in Chinese philosophy, containing many paradoxical statements that have been extensively debated among philosophers. The text is often interpreted as a manual to living life with integrity and inner peace, while exploring the essence of both physical and spiritual worlds. The writings emphasize the theme of Tao, which translates to “the way” and refers to the underlying natural order of the universe. Lao Tzu starts off the work by introducing this philosophical stance, claiming that all knowledge comes from Tao and that “the way” is the ultimate guiding force behind the balance and harmony of the universe.
The focus of the Tao Te Ching is on the idea of not trying to figure out the right course of action in life, or exert remorseless force over the world, but to simply try to live life in harmony with the natural order of things. This concept is heavily stressed throughout the work, seen in the idea of Wu Wei, or “action through inaction.” The Tao Te Ching works to emphasize the importance of non-action, or refraining from being overly concerned with mundane worldly issues, as a way of reaching true understanding.
Lao Tzu also expresses the idea of change and how those who best understand the world are those who are in tune with the natural order. His beliefs are summed up by the famous phrase from the book, “The more laws and restrictions there are, the poorer people become,” meaning that by forcing control over the world, one may find oneself further distancing from truth and understanding. The same idea is expressed in another phrase from the Tao Te Ching, ”He who knows does not speak. He who speaks does not know.”
The translation made by Gia-Fu Feng and Jane English has been met with appreciation from readers. The authors provide a poetic, easy-to-understand English translation while also making sure to keep the ancient feeling and spirit of the original Chinese text. Along with their translation, Feng and English provide extensive explanations and commentaries to various verses throughout the work, helping to explain and contextualize the complex ideas present in the text.
To many readers, the Tao Te Ching by Gia Fu Feng and Jane English is an essential work of spiritual and philosophical growth. The ideas presented in the text operate on a deep and introspective level of thinking and understanding, offering timeless advice as to how to live a mindful, honest life. It is an easy read and an important document that helps illuminate the core values of Taoism and Chinese philosophy.
