Laozi reading group
In this online group we discuss the Laozi (Daode jing/Tao Te Ching) from a number of perspectives. These include the development of the text within Chinese culture, its significance to Daoist cultivation, and our own responses and reflections during the course of reading.
The group is led by Shidao and is running biweekly over the summer of 2020. For each session we focus on one chapter which is chosen to highlight some of the terms most essential to the Laozi. Key terms will include the dao (the way), de (virtue, potency, power), ziran (self-so; spontaneity), wuwei (non-action) and a number of others. Although we refer to the Chinese terms during our discussion, no understanding of Chinese is required and the main focus is on English translations of the text.
Reading
There are many English editions of the Daode jing available and for guidance on some particularly useful translations, please see the reading list page. For each session, participants will be provided with at least one translation of the chapter under discussion. Robert Henricks’ Lao Tzu: Te-Tao Ching is one of the main editions we use, however we also refer to other versions as we consider the range of possible interpretations.
Participation
Participation is limited to members of the BDA and numbers are restricted in order to allow all participants to engage in the discussion. If you wish to take part please contact us to express your interest.