A leading scholar feng shui master presents the great depth and diversity of Taoist philosophy, practices, and history in this accessible manual to the oft-misunderstood spiritual tradition.Millions of readers have come to the philosophy of Taoism thanks to the classics Tao Te Ching and the I Ching, or through the practices of t'ai chi and feng-shui, but the Tao is less known for its unique traditions of meditation, physical training, magical practice, and internal alchemy.Eva Wong, a leading Taoist practitioner and translator, provides a solid introduction to the Way. All of Taoism’s most important texts, figures, and events are covered, as well as its extraordinarily rich history and remarkable variety of practice. Sections include:• The History of Taoism traces the development of the tradition from the shamans of prehistoric China through the classical period (including the teachings of the famous sage Lao-tzu), the beginnings of Taoism as a religion, the rise of mystical and alchemical Taoism, and the synthesis of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism.• Systems of Taoism explores magical sects, divination practices, devotional ceremonies, internal alchemy, and the way of right action.• Taoist Practices discusses meditation, techniques of cultivating the body, and rites of purification, ceremony, and talismanic magic.This roadmap to the spiritual landscape of Taoism not only introduces the important events in the history of Taoism, the sages who wrote the Taoist texts, and the various schools of Taoist thinking, but also gives readers a feel for what it means to practice Taoism today. A comprehensive bibliography for further study completes this valuable reference work.

The brilliant new translation of the classic Taoist guide to meditation that Carl Jung made famous.'Thomas Cleary's translation is like an island of peace in the troubled sea of today's world. His beautifully lucid translation of the classic Chi

This book . . . is meant for those rare individuals who ponder the answers to life’s big questions and have the strength to stare reality boldly in the face. — Grand Master Alex Anatole. Since Lao Tzu first introduced the world to Taoism more than two millennia ago, his elegant teachings have been shrouded in mystery and interpreted in many different ways. Finally, The Truth of Tao explains the secrets of this powerful philosophical system in clear, concise language that everyone can understand. Grand Master Alex Anatole takes readers on a journey of enlightenment, revealing the confusion inherent in Western and Eastern cultural values, clarifying Lao Tzu’s principles, and showing how to apply these principles in everyday situations. Taoism’s elegant system logically unfolds, unifying the physical, mental and spiritual realms until ultimately the purpose of life is revealed.

Taoism for Beginners is a practical guide to applying the key notions, concepts and beliefs underlying Taoism's various branches and schools.Authors C. Alexander and Annellen Simpkins tap into their years of training and study in meditation, martial arts and Eastern philosophy to provide readers with a comprehensive introduction to the spiritual tenets and attainments that mark the holistic pathway to a life more in balance.This book offers readers: A clear explanation of what Taoism is and how to apply its most salient tenets and teachings to your daily life Simple exercises to enable you to lead a calmer and more mindful, connected life—taking in a range of practices that include meditation, breathing, chi kung and tai chi chuan An exploration of the origins and background of Taoism, including the various sects and schools of thought An informative discussion of key Taoist concepts, including wu-wei (nonaction), yin and yang, and the powerful way of De (the cradle of power, virtue and life)This new edition has been updated by the author to include the connections between Taoism and mindfulness and meditation, as well as ritualized practices to heighten mind-body connection in order to control chi (energy). Taoist principles and concepts have guided people on the path to harmony, wholeness, balance and greater well-being for millennia. This beginning resource makes an ancient religion, its practices and history accessible for a twenty-first century reader.

Drawing on ancient and modern sources, "a lucid discussion of Taoism and the Chinese language [that's] profound, reflective, and enlightening." —Boston Globe According to Deepak Chopra, "Watts was a spiritual polymath, the first and possibly greatest." Watts treats the Chinese philosophy of Tao in much the same way as he did Zen Buddhism in his classic The Way of Zen. Critics agree that this last work stands as a perfect monument to the life and literature of Alan Watts. "Perhaps the foremost interpreter of Eastern disciplines for the contemporary West, . . . Watts begins with scholarship and intellect and proceeds with art and eloquence to the frontiers of the spirit."—Los Angeles Times

This collection of brief meditative essays illustrates the ancient philosophy that holds the key to success in all aspects of lifeThe Tao is the ancient Chinese "Way" that has inspired numerous books, from The Tao of Physics to The Tao of Sex. This book, written by an 18th-century Taoist adept, might be called ”The Tao of Tao.” In 142 brief meditative essays, author Liu I-ming uses simple language and natural imagery to express the essence of the wisdom that holds the key to success in every human endeavor.

(32 page black & white insert)This book . . . is meant for those rare individuals who ponder the answers to life’s big questions and have the strength to stare reality boldly in the face. — Grand Master Alex AnatoleSince Lao Tzu first introduced the world to Taoism more than two millennia ago, his elegant teachings have been shrouded in mystery and interpreted in many different ways. Finally, The Truth of Tao explains the secrets of this powerful philosophical system in clear, concise language that everyone can understand. Grand Master Alex Anatole takes readers on a journey of enlightenment, revealing the confusion inherent in Western and Eastern cultural values, clarifying Lao Tzu’s principles, and showing how to apply these principles in everyday situations. Taoism’s elegant system logically unfolds, unifying the physical, mental and spiritual realms until ultimately the purpose of life is revealed.

The classic novel of a quest for knowledge that has delighted, inspired, and influenced generations of readers, writers, and thinkers—a perennial favorite for graduation gifts.Nominated as one of America’s best-loved novels by PBS’s The Great American ReadThough set in a place and time far removed from the Germany of 1922, the year of the book’s debut, the novel is infused with the sensibilities of Hermann Hesse’s time, synthesizing disparate philosophies–Eastern religions, Jungian archetypes, Western individualism–into a unique vision of life as expressed through one man’s search for meaning.It is the story of the quest of Siddhartha, a wealthy Indian Brahmin who casts off a life of privilege and comfort to seek spiritual fulfillment and wisdom. On his journey, Siddhartha encounters wandering ascetics, Buddhist monks, and successful merchants, as well as a courtesan named Kamala and a simple ferryman who has attained enlightenment. Traveling among these people and experiencing life’s vital passages–love, work, friendship, and fatherhood–Siddhartha discovers that true knowledge is guided from within.

Ancient practices for modern lives―the perfect taste of TaoismBegin your journey of spiritual exploration and deepen your connection to the earth. Taoism for Beginners is your easy-to-understand guide to a rich, spiritual tradition that originated in ancient China and offers a new holistic perspective.Discover the core principles and traditions of Taoism with straightforward language and simple exercises you can do anywhere. Adopting aspects of Taoism into your everyday life can bring you into peace and harmony with yourself and the world around you―a practice that's more vital than ever in our busy modern-day lives.Taoism for Beginners helps you: Feel better and feel more―Build your own Taoist practice that can help you relax, de-stress, and feel more at ease in your life. Learn history and tradition―Meet Taoism's founder, Lao Tzu, and learn the basic history of Taoism practice for the past 2500 years. This book and beyond―Deepen your practice (if you wish) with included resources for further reading and study.Explore the depth and breadth of Taoism in a clear format that you can apply to everything you do.

You’re no idiot, of course. You know Taoism is one of the world’s oldest religions, based on simplicity and balance. However, you may not know it has important parallels with modern Western life: health, ecology, even in such pop culture icons as Luke Skywalker and The Beatles.But you don’t have to sit at the feet of a Taoist master to learn how the Taoist tradition has enlightened seekers throughout the centuries! The Complete Idiot’s Guide® to Taoism will show you exactly why Taoist principles appeal to people from every walk of life! In this Complete Idiot’s Guide®, you get:--The history of the Daode Jing, the world’s shortest core religious text, and Laozi, its mysterious author.--The teachings of Zhuangzi, the often-overlooked master sage of Taoism.--An explanation of ying-yang and what it represents.--Taoism’s relationship to Zen Buddhism.

The power of the Tao has accompanied the author through the journey of his life, from pupil during the Chinese Cultural Revolution to professor at an American liberal arts college. In Do Nothing and Do Everything: An Illustrated New Taoism, Zhao applies the ideas of Wu Wei (do nothing) and Wu Bu Wei (do everything) to modern life.Rich and humorous illustrations convey the subtle ideas that go beyond language and are re-created in the same style as the ones the author draws impromptu on the blackboard in his classes. Do Nothing and Do Everything is supplemented by observations of American and Chinese life.This introduction to ancient Taoism is conveyed in a lighthearted and humorous manner. This illustrated new Taoism will answer the widespread thirst for an alternative approach to life, and a longing for health, tranquility, and spiritual liberation.

A bestseller with over 250,000 copies sold, Being Peace is the seminal founding work by Zen Master and Nobel Peace Prize nominee Thich Nhat Hanh. With a new introduction by Jack Kornfield and the first update since its release over fifteen years ago, this eloquent meditation on "being peace in order to make peace" is more relevant than ever. A book for everyone concerned about the state of the world and the quality of our lives, it has lost none of its timeliness since it was first published in 1987. It is filled with practical suggestions how to create a more peaceful world "right in the moment we are alive." Contains Thich Nhat Hanh's key practices, including a guide to the practice of reconciliation which has become a peacemaking tool in many other religious traditions.This beautiful, newly revised edition is the perfect starting point for those who are getting their first introduction to Buddhism as well as a must-have for those already engaged in the tradition.With illustrations by Mayumi Oda.

The Tao is the way of man's cooperation with the natural course of the natural world. Alan Watts takes the reader through the history of Tao and its interpretations by key thinkers such as Lao-Tzu, author of the Tao Te Ching. Alan Watts goes on to demonstrate how the ancient and timeless Chinese wisdom of Tao promotes the idea of following a life lived according to the natural world and goes against our goal-oriented ideas by allowing time to quiet our minds and observe the world rather than imposing ourselves on it. By taking in some of the lessons of Tao, we can change our attitude to the way we live.Drawing on ancient and modern sources, Watts treats the Chinese philosophy of Tao in much the same way as he did Zen Buddhism in his classic The Way of Zen. Alan Watts is the best guide to the spirit of the Tao for a western readership. Including an introduction to the Chinese culture that is the foundation of the Tao, this is one of Alan Watts' best-loved works.

Taoism is codified in the Tao Te Ching, which was written in the sixth century B.C. by the ancient sage Lao Tzu. Despite being history's second-most translated book after the Bible, its eighty-one poems have often been interpreted with confusing, contradictory, and sometimes blatantly incorrect explanations. The Essence of Tao removes the mystery surrounding this important philosophy and religion by reordering the core poems of the Tao Te Ching into a logical framework based on Taoism's nine core principles and then explaining these principles in easy-to-understand language. Grand Master Anatole uses ancient and formerly "secret keys" to help unlock Lao Tzu's mysteries, including Taoism's famous paradoxes. The Essence of Tao will help the reader get a clear view of reality in order to create a content existence.

An utterly unique and accessible introduction to the ancient principles of Taoism with the world's favourite bear, Winnie-the-Pooh and his friend Piglet.Winnie-the-Pooh has a certain way about him, a way of doing things that has made him the world's most beloved bear, and Pooh's Way, as Benjamin Hoff brilliantly demonstrates, seems strangely close to the ancient Chinese principles of Taoism. And as for Piglet, he embodies the very important principle of Te, meaning Virtue of the Small."It's hard to be brave,' said Piglet, sniffing slightly, "when you're only a Very Small Animal."Rabbit, who had begun to write very busily, looked up and said: "It is because you are a very small animal that you will be useful in the adventure before us."Benjamin Hoff's explanations of Taoism and Te through Pooh and Piglet show that this is not an ancient and remote philosophy but something that you can use, here and now. Beautifully illustrated by E H Shepard.

Taoism is codified in the Tao Te Ching, which was written in the sixth century B.C. by the ancient sage Lao Tzu. Despite being history's second-most translated book after the Bible, its eighty-one poems have often been interpreted with confusing, contradictory, and sometimes blatantly incorrect explanations. The Essence of Tao removes the mystery surrounding this important philosophy and religion by reordering the core poems of the Tao Te Ching into a logical framework based on Taoism's nine core principles and then explaining these principles in easy-to-understand language. Grand Master Anatole uses ancient and formerly "secret keys" to help unlock Lao Tzu's mysteries, including Taoism's famous paradoxes. The Essence of Tao will help the reader get a clear view of reality in order to create a content existence. Additional information about Grand Master Anatole and The Temple of Original Simplicity can be found at www.tao.org.

The most accessible and authoritative modern English translation of this esoteric but infinitely practical bestselling book."No one has done better in conveying Lao Tsu's simple and laconic style of writing, so as to produce an English version almost as suggestive of the many meanings intended." —Alan WattsFor nearly two generations, Gia-fu Feng and Jane English's bestselling translation of the Tao Te Ching has been the standard for those seeking access to the wisdom of Taoist thought. Now Jane English and her long-time editor, Toinette Lippe, have revised and refreshed the translation so that it more faithfully reflects the Classical Chinese in which it was first written, taking into account changes in our own language and eliminating any lingering infelicities. They have retained the simple clarity of the original rendering of a sometimes seemingly obtuse spiritual text, a clarity that has made this version a classic in itself, selling over a million copies.Written most probably in the sixth century B.C. by Lao Tsu, this esoteric but infintely practical book has been translated into English more frequently than any other work except the Bible. Gia-fu Feng and Jane English's superb translation offers the essence of each word and makes Lao Tsu's teaching immediate and alive. This edition includes an introduction and notes by the well-known writer and scholar of philosophy and comparative religion, Jacob Needleman.

Discover the captivating blend of ancient Eastern and Western philosophies in "Philosophy in the Modern World." If you're seeking an intense, academic exploration that promises to transform your life, this may not be the book for you. However, if you're interested in a delightful journey through the relevance of these philosophies in today's world, then keep reading.In this engaging book, the author seamlessly weaves together two profound philosophies that represent the rich cultures of the East and West. But hold on tight! Alongside insightful discussions, you'll also encounter a delightful assortment of movie quotes, classic rock song recommendations, and hilarious anecdotes that will leave you with a positive outlook or, at the very least, a good laugh.The author, though not an accredited philosopher, brings a wealth of life experiences to the table. With over 40 years of studying and teaching martial arts and a decade of college-level history instruction, they have observed and absorbed wisdom throughout their 64-year journey. Having navigated numerous careers, family life, and personal hardships, they share their valuable insights and lessons learned along the way.While the author invites you to embark on this philosophical adventure, it's essential to note that this book does not aim to challenge your religion, worldview, or personal beliefs. Instead, it encourages you to be a seeker of truth, tailored to your own life's path. As you explore the perspectives of both Stoicism and Taoism, you'll come to understand that truth is subjective, especially when it comes to navigating the stresses of our modern existence.So sit back, relax, and perhaps pour yourself a drink or light up a cigar if that's your preference. Join the author on this thought-provoking exploration, where the wisdom of ancient philosophies meets the challenges of the 21st century. "Philosophy in the Modern World" offers a unique perspective that will inspire you to find your own truth and embrace a fulfilling life in today's fast-paced society.

The legendary novel of freedom and the search for authenticity that defined a generation, now in a striking new Pengiun Classics Deluxe EditionInspired by Jack Kerouac's adventures with Neal Cassady, On the Road tells the story of two friends whose cross-country road trips are a quest for meaning and true experience. Written with a mixture of sad-eyed naiveté and wild ambition and imbued with Kerouac's love of America, his compassion for humanity, and his sense of language as jazz, On the Road is the quintessential American vision of freedom and hope, a book that changed American literature and changed anyone who has ever picked it up.

A brilliant, beautifully presented translation of the Taoist ‘way of integrity’—Lao Tzu’s classic text and sublimely spiritual teachings on how to live with goodness and integrity.Taosim affirms that each human being is a reflection of the whole universe—a microcosm within the macrocosm—and that all of us live under the same cosmic laws of the Tao. The Taoist follows the path of non-action (Wu Wei), flowing with the constantly changing stream of life, and trying to live in universal harmony and balance.The easily assimilated aphorisms in this great book are a continuous source of spiritual guidance and nourishment, and its insights on statesmanship are practical guides for our own time. Ralph Alan Dale’s brilliant translation uniquely captures, as never before, the essential meaning of this profound text, and makes it entirely relevant to today’s readers.

Jack Kerouac’s classic novel about friendship, the search for meaning, and the allure of nature“In [On the Road] Kerouac’s heroes were sensation seekers; now they are seekers after truth . . . the novel often attains a beautiful dignity.”—Chicago TribuneFirst published in 1958, a year after On the Road put the Beat Generation on the map, The Dharma Bums stands as one of Jack Kerouac’s most powerful and influential novels. The story focuses on two ebullient young Americans—mountaineer, poet, and Zen Buddhist Japhy Ryder, and Ray Smith, a zestful, innocent writer—whose quest for Truth leads them on a heroic odyssey, from marathon parties and poetry jam sessions in San Francisco’s Bohemia to solitude and mountain climbing in the High Sierras.

(18 page color insert)Ordained as a Taoist priest and Fox Master, Grand Master Anatole continues the traditions and teachings of Taoism and the Fox Creed through a classical curriculum employing the ancient rituals and practices of Fox Exorcism and Taoist Soul Therapy for mental and physical health and wellness. Motivated by a desire to open the worship of the Fox Creed to the public, he writes and lectures throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.The Creed of the Foxes dates back thousands of years. The worship of gods known as Foxes is based on a belief in animistic, foxlike, spiritual deities that are part of the cultural and religious fabric of Asia. To clarify the underlying principles of the Fox tradition, Master Anatole creates for the reader a framework of understanding that focuses on ancient Chinese and Japanese history yet encompasses a structure of beliefs shared by shamanistic cultures that span the world. Master Anatole also provides a compendium of related aspects from a wide range of culturally and historically diverse spiritual practices to illustrate the common beliefs regarding the moving energies of the soul after death, while demystifying Taoist correlative cosmology—the basis for all Taoist and Fox metaphysics. Ultimately, he builds to the logical conclusion that the purpose of our lives is to achieve intellectual evolution and spiritual immortality.

In this deeply learned work, Toshihiko Izutsu compares the metaphysical and mystical thought-systems of Sufism and Taoism and discovers that, although historically unrelated, the two share features and patterns which prove fruitful for a transhistorical dialogue. His original and suggestive approach opens new doors in the study of comparative philosophy and mysticism.Izutsu begins with Ibn 'Arabi, analyzing and isolating the major ontological concepts of this most challenging of Islamic thinkers. Then, in the second part of the book, Izutsu turns his attention to an analysis of parallel concepts of two great Taoist thinkers, Lao-tzu and Chuang-tzu. Only after laying bare the fundamental structure of each world view does Izutsu embark, in the final section of the book, upon a comparative analysis. Only thus, he argues, can he be sure to avoid easy and superficial comparisons. Izutsu maintains that both the Sufi and Taoist world views are based on two pivots―the Absolute Man and the Perfect Man―with a whole system of oncological thought being developed between these two pivots. Izutsu discusses similarities in these ontological systems and advances the hypothesis that certain patterns of mystical and metaphysical thought may be shared even by systems with no apparent historical connection.This second edition of Sufism and Taoism is the first published in the United States. The original edition, published in English and in Japan, was prized by the few English-speaking scholars who knew of it as a model in the field of comparative philosophy. Making available in English much new material on both sides of its comparison, Sufism and Taoism richly fulfills Izutsu's motivating desire "to open a new vista in the domain of comparative philosophy."

(22 page color insert)Ordained as a Taoist priest and Fox Master, Grand Master Anatole continues the traditions and teachings of Taoism and the Fox Creed through a classical curriculum employing the ancient rituals and practices of Fox Exorcism and Taoist Soul Therapy for mental and physical health and wellness. Motivated by a desire to open the worship of the Fox Creed to the public, he writes and lectures throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.The Creed of the Foxes dates back thousands of years. The worship of gods known as Foxes is based on a belief in animistic, foxlike, spiritual deities that are part of the cultural and religious fabric of Asia. To clarify the underlying principles of the Fox tradition, Master Anatole creates for the reader a framework of understanding that focuses on ancient Chinese and Japanese history yet encompasses a structure of beliefs shared by shamanistic cultures that span the world. Master Anatole also provides a compendium of related aspects from a wide range of culturally and historically diverse spiritual practices to illustrate the common beliefs regarding the moving energies of the soul after death, while demystifying Taoist correlative cosmology—the basis for all Taoist and Fox metaphysics. Ultimately, he builds to the logical conclusion that the purpose of our lives is to achieve intellectual evolution and spiritual immortality.

These two volumes contain the complete James Legge translation of the sacred writings of the great mystical religion that for millennia has counterbalanced the official Confucianism of the Chinese state. Together with the Confucian canon, these writings have been avidly studied by generations of Chinese scholars and literary men and their place in the formation of Chinese civilization is central.First published as volume xxxix and xl of Max Müller's Sacred Books of the East series, these volumes contain the complete texts of the Tao Te Ching attributed to Lao Tzü; the writings of Chuang Tzü; and several shorter works; the T'ai Shang or Tractate of Actions and Their Retributions, the Ch'ing Chang Ching or Classic of Purity, the Yin Fu Ching of Classic of the Harmony of the Seen and Unseen, the Yü Shu Ching or Classic of the Pivot of jade, and the Hsia Yung Ching or Classic of the Directory for a Day. Many of these lesser documents are to be found in translation only in this collection.Professor Legge, who held the chair in Chinese language and literature at Oxford for 20 years, introduces the collection with a discussion of differences among Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, the authorship of the Tao Te Ching, the real meaning of Tao in Chinese thought, and other backgrounds.Orientalists and students of religion have long recognized this collection as indispensable. But laymen will find that the Tao Te Ching is not only profound but provocative and stimulating and that the parables and tales in the work of Chuang Tzü are delightful reading.

A rich, poetic, and socially relevant version of the great spiritual-philosophical classic of Taoism, the Tao Te Ching—from a legendary literary iconMost people know Ursula K. Le Guin for her extraordinary science fiction and fantasy. Fewer know just how pervasive Taoist themes are to so much of her work. And in Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching, we are treated to Le Guin’s unique take on Taoist philosophy’s founding classic.Le Guin presents Lao Tzu’s time-honored and astonishingly powerful philosophy like never before. Drawing on a lifetime of contemplation and including extensive personal commentary throughout, she offers an unparalleled window into the text’s awe-inspiring, immediately relatable teachings and their inestimable value for our troubled world.Jargon-free but still faithful to the poetic beauty of the original work, Le Guin’s unique translation is sure to be welcomed by longtime readers of the Tao Te Ching as well as those discovering the text for the first time.

Most people think of the Tao Te Ching as a book on philosophy or a treatise on leadership. Yet there is a little-known treasure hidden within the familiar passages of Lao Tzu’s work: step-by-step practical guidance for the spiritual journey. With Practicing the Tao Te Ching, renowned teacher Solala Towler reveals a new facet to this spiritual classic, offering accessible instructions paired with each of the 81 verses of the Tao Te Ching."Tao is a way of deep reflection and learning from nature, considered the highest teacher," writes Towler. "It teaches us to follow the energy flows within the heavens, the earth, and our own bodies." With lucid instruction and deep insight, he guides you through meditations, movement and breathing practices, subtle energy exercises, and inner reflections―all to help you to embody Taoist wisdom in every aspect of your life.

(52 page color insert)Ordained as a Taoist priest and Fox Master, Grand Master Anatole continues the traditions and teachings of Taoism and the Fox Creed through a classical curriculum employing the ancient rituals and practices of Fox Exorcism and Taoist Soul Therapy for mental and physical health and wellness. Motivated by a desire to open the worship of the Fox Creed to the public, he writes and lectures throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.The Creed of the Foxes dates back thousands of years. The worship of gods known as Foxes is based on a belief in animistic, foxlike, spiritual deities that are part of the cultural and religious fabric of Asia. To clarify the underlying principles of the Fox tradition, Master Anatole creates for the reader a framework of understanding that focuses on ancient Chinese and Japanese history yet encompasses a structure of beliefs shared by shamanistic cultures that span the world. Master Anatole also provides a compendium of related aspects from a wide range of culturally and historically diverse spiritual practices to illustrate the common beliefs regarding the moving energies of the soul after death, while demystifying Taoist correlative cosmology—the basis for all Taoist and Fox metaphysics. Ultimately, he builds to the logical conclusion that the purpose of our lives is to achieve intellectual evolution and spiritual immortality.

A principal part of the Taoist canon for many centuries, this Lao-Tzu classic is an essential overview of the Taoist practice of internal alchemy, or qigongEquanimity, good health, peace of mind, and long life are the goals of the ancient Taoist tradition known as “internal alchemy,” of which Cultivating Stillness is a key text. Written between the second and fifth centuries, the book is attributed to T’ai Shang Lao-chun—the legendary figure more widely known as Lao-Tzu, author of the Tao-te Ching. The accompanying commentary, written in the nineteenth century by Shui-ch’ing Tzu, explains the alchemical symbolism of the text and the methods for cultivating internal stillness of body and mind.A key text in the Taoist canon, Cultivating Stillness is still the first book studied by Taoist initiates today.

GRAND MASTER ALEX ANATOLE was born in Moscow, Russia. At the age of eight, he became a disciple of Master Lu Yang Tai, “The Enlightened One,” a Taoist sage whose genealogical roots extended back to the ancient origins of Taoism. Ordained as a Taoist priest and Master of Celestial Foxes, Grand Master Anatole continues the traditions and teachings of Taoism and the Creed of Celestial Foxes through a classical curriculum employing the ancient techniques for mental and physical health and wellness. Motivated by a desire to open the worship of Classical Taoism and Empirical Metaphysics, he writes and lectures throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.In this short essay, Grand Master Anatole gives a synopsis of the three sacred postulates of Taoism; Nature, Humanity and Justice, and Empirical Metaphysics. Nature, is the litmus test for our earthly existence. The Taoist understanding of Humanity and Justice explains the motivations of the social structure and how to successfully navigate complex social environments. Empirical Metaphysics is the discipline of communicating with the High Energy to achieve practical results for a successful and prosperous life. The three fundamental pillars are based on an understanding of dealing with the impartiality of ultimate reality rather than the idealistic concepts of universal love, freedom, and fairness for all. These three pylons form the golden triangle of Taoism and are presented and explained by Grand Master Anatole in simple, easy-to-understand language.Additional information about Grand Master Anatole and The Temple of Original Simplicity can be found at www.wikipedia.org and www.tao.org.