Lao-Tzu's TaoTeChing, with selected commentaries from the past 2,000 years

by Red Pine

A new translation of Lao Tzu's TaoTeChing with selected commentaries of the past 2,000 years, translated by Red Pine.

Genres: Philosophy, China, Taoism, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Classics, Poetry

184 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 601

About the author

Pen name of Bill Porter

Reviews

[Julio R. Ra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read the Taoteching before but this edition, because of the commentary that accompanies the verses, gives so much depth to the reading as well as context. For me, the reading was like a magical get together with Chinese sages of different times and eras, some who are Taoist, some who are statesmen. This not only enriched my view into the spiritual and mystic aspect of the Tao, but also a glimpse at its political ideology. For this reason, the Taoteching is half a mystical poetry book, half a guide to rule the people. This edition will keep you busy for a while.

[Blaine Snow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Red Pine is a master translator of both original texts and of the many insightful commentaries over history in the original culture. Of the many dozens of translations of this seminal Chinese text, Red Pine's stands out as one of the very best, bringing out the deep meaning of Lao-Tzu's words with greater clarity through ages of Chinese commentators. This and Jane English/Gia GuFeng's translations stand above the rest.

[SP · Rating 5 out of 5]

An original translation of the text, together with translations of major historic commentators on each chapter. Notes on some of the translation decisions made by Red Pine. Between that and the commentary, possibly the best translation of the Daodejing that I've read.

[Brennan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the way this book was laid out, with each verse getting its own space and commentary. I will be excited to compare this version to some others and see how they hold up to each other.

[aja · Rating 5 out of 5]

i really, really love the formatting of this book. each verse of has its own page, with the chinese text & the english translation next to each other, followed by comments on that specific verse from various scholars, philosophers, monks, etc, as well as various translation notes from the author, intended by the author to portray the book as a kind of discussion between lao-tzu and the assorted scholars. i genuinely would not have really known what to make of each verse without the commentary; it was incredibly helpful. in particular this is a very good starting point for anyone interested in learning more about daoism.

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't like the actual verses as well in this translation as Stephen Mitchell's, but the commentary is far superior here! It's fascinating to see how various interpretations have varied over the ages.

[Shinji007 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is probably one of my favorite translations now. The commentaries provided are really diverse and really add to the reading experience. It is a really recommended read!

[Sol 솔 · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a non-literal "translation," and the author admits this.

The most popular translations of the Dao De Jing in English are the fake translations (e.g. Stephen Mitchell), because Americans apparently like fake cheesy stuff. This is really the only non-literal "poetic license" translation that I can recommend. Because the Classical Chinese is written in a way that can't fit into English, the author decides to instead make a version that keeps the poetic meter, and sacrifice literalness.

And surprisingly, it's not totally fraudulent, like most attempts, and is pretty fun too.

[Naomi Ayala · Rating 4 out of 5]

I do love Red Pine more than words can say and enjoyed this translation but, at times, the commentaries were really distracting. Since they are all laid out across each two-page spread throughout the book, it was hard for my eye not to float over to them, even when I didn't want to. I found many of the commentaries interesting but, for me, they didn't necessarily illuminate the text. As a writer, though, I especially appreciated the great amount of research that went into the making this book.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

An essential volume for serious students of Lao Tzu. Red Pine is a fabulous translator, but what really makes this book special is the way he surrounds each "poem" with selected commentary from 2,000 years of Chinese discussion of this endlessly fascinating text. He also provide the Chinese alongside of each passage, a very nice touch. A book to cherish and consult again and again.

[Very Wrong · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would have given 10 stars if it allows.
This book is my #1 choice, to always keep by my side.
What's amazing about this book are the commentaries from the past 2000 years. The commentaries covers from the 3 foundations of Chinese's cultural religion: Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism.
This one book is equivalent to 2000 years of wisdom!

[Annie]

Terrible translation but the commentaries are fun

[Emma Dufresne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This will be something I read over and over again. My favorite verses, for my first read, are as follows: 10,32,33,39-41,46,58,59, & 62-67.

[Phil Calandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author provides an excellent translation and insight into the meaning of the 80 stanzas of the TaoTeChing and allows the reader an opportunity to come to one's own conclusions. Included are commentaries from the author and selected quotes from ancient writers who have interpreted these verses. I found this book draws very close parallels to other Eastern and Western Philosophy and there seems to be a common thread through all of them each coming from its own unique prospective. I would highly recommend this book.

[Thady · Rating 4 out of 5]

guide to life, philosophy of life and living explained See my blog 1452 - THE WAY - TAO TE CHING - by Lao - tzu. and subsequent blogs at wisethady@wordpress.com. I also read Stephen Mitchell's poetic translation and the modern version by Ron Hogan for a slightly different perspective on the Tao. Read, enjoy and put into practice. Namaste

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite translation of the Tao te Ching

[Tim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

[Josh Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the all time best translation. Plus the commentaries are phenomenally helpful.

[Arthur Rosenfeld · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my top ten favorite translations of a book that is perhaps the most important ever written.