The Interpretation of the Tao Te Ching

Author: Wang Qiang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-06-01
Features: A "Tao Te Ching" is, in essence, a "Tao Attainment Manual." This book interprets each chapter, paragraph, word, and sentence of the "Tao Te Ching" in order. While doing so, it proposes new understandings based on a thorough review of previous interpretations. For example, it offers entirely fresh explanations of fundamental concepts such as "name" and "Tao." This book serves as both an academic reading of the entire "Tao Te Ching" and an anthology of various viewpoints on the work by previous scholars. It is also a scholarly monograph with insightful perspectives. The writing of this book, particularly the explanations of the eighty-one chapters of the "Tao Te Ching," follows a process: first, the original text is transcribed, then a preliminary explanation is provided, followed by annotations, and finally it is translated into plain language.
What kind of book is the "Laozi"? Some say it speaks of philosophical thoughts, others say it discusses governance techniques, and still others say it addresses military matters. As for whether I agree or disagree with these views, I cannot say, but I can share my own perspective. I believe it speaks of a "great principle," and what is this great principle? It is the great principle of "attaining the Tao." That is why I say a "Tao Te Ching" is a "Tao Attainment Manual."
Furthermore, I believe the "Laozi" is a book that explains what true life is, a book that teaches how to cultivate a true self and construct a true world. The activity of life cannot be separated from the inherent "being" of life, that is, from the true "being"—this is the "true self" and the "true life." All things in the universe are originally entitled to this personal "true being." If all things enjoy their own "true being" without infringing on one another, then all things in the universe and humanity will share a coexistent and harmonious world. This is what is called the "true world."
To cultivate one's own "true life" and to construct a "true world" where all things enjoy their "true being" without infringement requires attaining, aligning with, and upholding the Tao. The "Laozi" is truly a book of great wisdom, a book that dispels illusions and preserves truth. We should all read it earnestly.
A "Tao Te Ching," in essence, is a "Tao Attainment Manual." This book interprets each chapter, paragraph, word, and sentence of the "Tao Te Ching" in order. While doing so, it proposes new understandings based on a thorough review of previous interpretations. For example, it offers entirely fresh explanations of fundamental concepts such as "name" and "Tao." This book serves as both an academic reading of the entire "Tao Te Ching" and an anthology of various viewpoints on the work by previous scholars. It is also a scholarly monograph with insightful perspectives. The writing of this book, particularly the explanations of the eighty-one chapters of the "Tao Te Ching," follows a process: first, the original text is transcribed, then a preliminary explanation is provided, followed by annotations, and finally it is translated into plain language.