When exploring Taoist thought, it's very important not to become overly fixated on the writings attributed to Lao Tzu. While many have theorized that "his" philosophy forms the basis of what came to be called Taoism, his writings are neither sacred nor divine. They merely represent one strand of a school of thought.
Equally as important are the writings attributed to the other two "founders" of philosophical Taoism: Chuang Tzu and Lieh-Tzü.
It is interesting to note that of the big three only Chuang Tzu definitely is known to have been a real person and historians have a fairly good idea of when he lived. Though not all of the writings attributed to him came from his own pen, many of the chapters from his book are thought to be his original words.
As the series on the TTC comes to a close, I will shift my attention to Chuang Tzu. I think I've read all of his book -- it's far longer than the TTC -- but, like many Taoists, I haven't really focused on his take on Tao and life. I do know that, while there are many common strands between Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu, the latter's approach is far different. He can be quite hilarious and argumentative in the same breath!
As I reread the Book of Chuang Tzu, I'm sure many of the themes he touches on (as well as the manner of his delivery) will become fodder for future blog posts. That said, I make no promises of how frequent this new direction will rear its head. Understanding Chuang Tzu -- chiefly because of its shamanic influences -- is often no walk in the park.
Besides that, Chuang Tzu doesn't want you to get it easily. He defies conventional thinking at every turn and laughs about it uproariously along the path.
Equally as important are the writings attributed to the other two "founders" of philosophical Taoism: Chuang Tzu and Lieh-Tzü.
It is interesting to note that of the big three only Chuang Tzu definitely is known to have been a real person and historians have a fairly good idea of when he lived. Though not all of the writings attributed to him came from his own pen, many of the chapters from his book are thought to be his original words.
As the series on the TTC comes to a close, I will shift my attention to Chuang Tzu. I think I've read all of his book -- it's far longer than the TTC -- but, like many Taoists, I haven't really focused on his take on Tao and life. I do know that, while there are many common strands between Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu, the latter's approach is far different. He can be quite hilarious and argumentative in the same breath!
As I reread the Book of Chuang Tzu, I'm sure many of the themes he touches on (as well as the manner of his delivery) will become fodder for future blog posts. That said, I make no promises of how frequent this new direction will rear its head. Understanding Chuang Tzu -- chiefly because of its shamanic influences -- is often no walk in the park.
Besides that, Chuang Tzu doesn't want you to get it easily. He defies conventional thinking at every turn and laughs about it uproariously along the path.
i am mostly familiar with lao tzu so this new direction should be enlightening!
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