Early Daoist scriptures
Book Description
For those drawn to explore the foundational wisdom of ancient Chinese spirituality, Stephen R. Bokenkamp opens a rare window into the sacred texts that shaped early Daoist practice. This comprehensive collection presents scriptures from the second through sixth centuries that have remained largely unknown to Western readers, offering an authentic glimpse into the diverse traditions that flourished during Daoism's formative period.
Bokenkamp carefully guides readers through representative works from major Daoist schools, providing essential historical and cultural context for each tradition. The collection includes fascinating discoveries: the oldest known commentary on the revered Daode jing, revealing how ancient practitioners understood Laozi's timeless teachings. Historical records illuminate the development of early Daoist communities, while ritual texts demonstrate how believers sought spiritual protection and resolution from otherworldly concerns.
Two complete scriptures showcase the breadth of Daoist practice. One focuses on personal meditation techniques for individual spiritual cultivation, while another presents powerful recitations believed to offer salvation from spiritual suffering. These translations reveal not only Daoism's unique approaches to inner development but also its dynamic relationships with Confucian ethics and Buddhist philosophy.
Through Bokenkamp's scholarly yet accessible presentation, modern seekers can discover how these ancient voices addressed universal questions of meaning, practice, and transcendence that continue to resonate today.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Long (> 400 pages) (~14 hours)
🕉️ Tradition: Comparative Religion
📄 Length: 502 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Livres sacrés
- ✓ Explore Santian neijiejing
- ✓ Explore Da zhong song zhang
- ✓ Learn the way of the Tao
- ✓ Discover Taoist philosophy and way of life
- ✓ Explore timeless philosophical wisdom
- ✓ Explore Sacred books
- ✓ Explore Histoire religieuse
