num_pages: 288
description: A leading scholar feng shui master presents the great depth and diversity of Taoist philosophy practices and history in this accessible manual to the oft-misunderstood spiritual tradition.Millions of readers have come to the philosophy of Taoism thanks to the classics Tao Te Ching and the I Ching  or through the practices of t'ai chi and feng-shui but the Tao is less known for its unique traditions of meditation physical training magical practice and internal alchemy. Eva Wong a leading Taoist practitioner and translator provides a solid introduction to the Way. All of Taoisms most important texts figures and events are covered as well as its extraordinarily rich history and remarkable variety of practice. Sections include:  The History of Taoism traces the development of the tradition from the shamans of prehistoric China through the classical period (including the teachings of the famous sage Lao-tzu) the beginnings of Taoism as a religion the rise of mystical and alchemical Taoism and the synthesis of Taoism Buddhism and Confucianism. Systems of Taoism explores magical sects divination practices devotional ceremonies internal alchemy and the way of right action. Taoist Practices discusses meditation techniques of cultivating the body and rites of purification ceremony and talismanic magic.This roadmap to the spiritual landscape of Taoism not only introduces the important events in the history of Taoism the sages who wrote the Taoist texts and the various schools of Taoist thinking but also gives readers a feel for what it means to practice Taoism today. A comprehensive bibliography for further study completes this valuable reference work.
language: English
title: Taoism: An Essential Guide
publisher: Shambhala