Taoist Resources

I'm not an authority on what you should or shouldn't study when it comes to Taoist thought.

What I can do, however, is provide you with resources I've found helpful on my Path. Hopefully, these resources will be helpful to you as well.

Below you'll find a list of off-line and online resources for your study of the Way. It is by no means an exhaustive or authoritative list and, like all things, is subject to change.

Books - 

1. Tao Te Ching - the text I consider the starting point for all Taoist studies. I've linked to my favorite translation. Feel free to pick another version or one of the free online versions (see below)

2. The Way of Chuang Tzu - Excellent translation of the writings of one of the most influential Taoist sages.

3. Taoist Yoga and Sexual Energy - Perhaps the most complete and systematic texts on Mantak Chia's Universal Healing Tao system. I had read other books by Chia prior to obtaining Taoist Yoga and I really enjoyed them. But Yudelove's Taoist Yoga takes Chia's myriad books and condenses them into one volume. If you are going to study the Universal Healing Tao system get this book first!

3. The Art of War - Sun Tzu's universally practical text on strategy of the Way. While geared towards warfare the teachings can be applied to all aspects of life.

4. 365 Tao - This is a contemporary Taoist text but I consider it invaluable. It consists of 365 short passages   (one for every day of the year) which are to be read and contemplated. Very useful for personal practice.

Online Resources - 

1. I-Ching - LiSe Heyboer's online I-Ching resource is one of the best there is. This is fundamental stuff for anyone aspiring on the Way.

2. Tao Bums Forums - Personal favorite of mine for discussion on the Way.

3. Wikipedia's Taoism Page - One of the best starting points for research into Taoism.

4. Online Tao Te Ching - Multiple translations of Lao Tzu work.

5. Taoism on Sacred-Texts - Huge collection of translated Taoist works!

6. Journey to the West Online - One of my favorite stories, Journey to the West is filled with hidden meaning and combines Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian thought. You can get a paperback copy here.


Again, this list is not exhaustive. Rather it is meant as a starting point. Enjoy the journey!