Taoism for dummies

From the publisher. The definitive guide to understanding Taoism -- no matter your background or faith. Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching is the second most translated book in the world, and the practice of religious Taoism is on the rise in China, where adherents currently number in the hundreds of millions. Yet there remains a remarkable lack of reliable information about Taoism for curious westerners. Taoism For Dummies provides comprehensive coverage of Taoism's origins in China's Chou Dynasty, its underlying quietist principles, its emergence as a major religion, various interpretation of its core texts, including both Eastern and Western interpretations, key Taoist concepts, and much more. It also provides a fascinating glimpse of Taoism in contemporary China. The ideal guide for readers interested in this influential religion, as well as those taking an introductory course on Taoism or Chinese Religion. A valuable source of insight for those with an interest in modern Chinese culture and beliefs.

Part 1. Navigating the world of Taoism -- An introduction to Taoism -- What is Taoism? -- Don't believe everything you think -- Part 2. Looking at the development of Taoism -- Classical Taoist philosophy -- The development of institutional Taoism -- Types of Taoism in China today -- Go west, old Tao, go west -- Part 3. Examining important Taoist concepts -- What is the Tao, and what does it mean to follow it? -- Doing everything by doing nothing -- For every yin, there is an equal and opposite yang -- Blue heaven, yellow heaven : the belief in a new age -- Writing what can't be spoken : the many texts of Taoism -- Part 4. Exploring Taoist practices -- Remembering to keep forgetting -- Seeking the path to immortality -- Internal cultivation through the discipline of alchemy -- Martial, gymnastic, and healing arts : T'ai-chi and Ch'i-kung -- Cosmic renewal and other rituals -- Part 5. The part of tens -- Ten common misconceptions about Taoism -- Ten bits of advice for acquiring Taoist wisdom -- Ten places to see Taoist stuff happening today -- Part 6. Appendixes -- Appendix A : glossary -- Appendix B : resources -- Appendix C : pronunciation guide.