Lao-Tzu's Taoteching translated by Red Pine, with selected commentaries from the past 2000 years

This is an ancient poem that seeks to depict the nature of our world. It uses the concept of the Tao, something deeply elusive and difficult to fully grasp, to express all that is harmonious and functions as it should. Even in the 21st century, we still face countless questions and gaps in our understanding of the universe, both at the vast cosmic scale and at the microscopic level. It’s remarkable to imagine how ancient thinkers tried to make sense of the world, expressing their insights through a language shaped by farming and everyday life. The result is a remarkable work of poetry that has inspired generations. It has certainly inspired me to view the world not merely in material terms, but by observing how it functions effortlessly, how everything is interconnected, and how human beings might improve themselves by following the example of the Tao. 

I didn’t fully understand much of the poem or even the commentaries, but I still found it deeply enjoyable to read. Some ideas I’d like to explore further include Dark Virtue, the interplay between existence and nonexistence, noninterference, inner truth, and the cultivation of the Tao.