Tao Teh Ching (Shambhala Pocket Classics)

When I ordered this book, I didn't realize that it was the pocket edition. There's a bigger version of this book that includes Chinese writing along with the English translation. So be-careful if you want the other version. I wanted the Chinese words since I thought it was cool (even though I can't read chinese). But this book is so small, I can carry it with me easily anywhere and enjoy it! The translations seem much more precise compared to Stephen Mitchell's translations (keep in mind, I'm no expert in Eastern studies). Oddly, when I compare the two translations sometimes they are almost completely different which makes it even more interesting to me. Stephen seems to put his own more simple twist on it - which some times makes it sound better, but some times it sounds way too dumbed down or taken out of a more general or western context. You can tell it's probably more accurate because John is Chinese and Stephen isn't. You can see the difference in the choice of words. John uses very old and specific vocabulary that isn't commonly used (and I would have to look this stuff up): exalted, behooves, No-Ado (who says ado anymore?), erudite, sage. Overall it seems to be more complete and inclusive compared to Stephen's translations.

John Wu's translation is the best out there. I've read and re-read this book for guidance and inspiration for 45 years. My kids used to groan when I quoted passages to them, but now that they are in their 20's I got these copies for them and a friend and they were thrilled. Both have confessed that the wisdom in this book is insightful and has helped them frequently. This pocket size is extra handy, my son carries his in his briefcase now. I'll paraphrase a bit. "The Wise Sage regards all things as difficult, hence he meets with no difficulties in the end." "The Wise Sage meets no tigers or buffaloes on his road." (which to me means he doesn't GET on roads known to have tigers and buffaloes in the first place!) "The new born babe can howl and scream all day without becoming hoarse because he embodies perfect harmony." "Not to revere one's teacher, not to cherish one's charge, this is to be on the wrong path no matter how wise one is." "Fill your house with gold and jewels and it can no longer be guarded." Enjoy!

This is the best translation of The Tao I've read. I haven't read that many, but I was immediately struck with how accessible the language is while maintaining the great precision, delicacy and power. I looked for it because I had read that Thomas Merton really liked John Wu's translation of The Tao. I liked it so much, and couldn't find an e-version, that I ended up retyping the whole thing so I could carry it around on my phone. It's a very tiny size wise book, which at first I wasn't sure I liked, but now think it's a lovely idea because you could carry it around with you if you wanted. I believe there's a larger version of this translation, I think I saw it in a bookstore, but wasn't able to find it on line. In any case, it's a great translation and I think well worth getting.

It's a very nice translation. The words are simple but poetic. The only thing that I didn't realize is that it's so tiny. They weren't kidding when they said "pocket" sized.

The rating is more for the book itself than for this specific product but I will say this. This book is pocket size, likely smaller than your wallet, and in reading it, has struck me as being one of the original founts of wisdom. What I mean is that this work is both ancient and timeless, and for being able to read it in less than a day, have found it very thought-provoking.

This book, a compact printed form, as one might expect, reflects that personal interpretation of the famous "Tao Te Ching." Regardless of it's true foundation, this portable version is an excellent source of inspiration for one that is commuting (not driving), via train, bus, or plane. Any where, any time, is a good time to read and think. Concise as one can expect of material dating back 2500 years, the translation for me, is as relevant as any other.

What is there that can be said of the Tao Teh Ching by such an unlearned man as myself which could possibly shed any light on its many insights and thought provoking stanzas? Perhaps I would best serve you in reviewing this volume particularly. This is, possibly, my favorite of all the translations of the Tao and my favorite printing. It is carried daily in my pocket in place of a wallet, and I find it's value much more sustaining than the prior.It's been said that this is the best translation of Lao Tzu's Tao Teh Ching, though I cannot attest to the validity of the statement I can say that of the few translations that I have read this has been the most easy to understand and the most enjoyable.

This is the Tao as pictured...but it is pocket sized! Must have missed that in the description.Handy if you want to carry.

Classic literature from a very "weird/wired?" mane. Great pocket-sized version to take on all your travels. Convenient scripture and analects, to provide guidance for all your public and private readings. A great travel companion for all disciples of the "Old Master"."He who knows the Dao keeps silence. He who babbles knows it not." -Crowley, Lao, Tzu , Tao Teh Ching

I keep a collection of small books in various jacket pockets & find them very useful for when I'm bored or in need of spiritual input. This particular version of the Tao Te Ching IS one of those small (11cm x 7cm) books that fits in your pocket & yet can be brought out as a quick read/ refresher.And, having read a few translations, I've found this to be one of the clearest & most eloquent. The meaning is always understandable & the pithy richness of Taoist thought comes across so powerfully, that it only takes 1 or 2 verses for feelings of joy, enlightenment & inner peace to start coursing over you.The one downside is that there is no commentary or index. If you are just starting out on your Taoist journey, then I'd recommend Wayne Dyer's Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life: Living the Wisdom of the Tao first, and then have this as a top-up for Lunch breaks & times when you have a minute or two to spare.Needless to say, my version is filled with underlining & notes, as I always find the clear expression of concepts so wise, profound & insightful that I dare not trust my Swiss-Cheese memory with losing them!Anyway, if you're looking for an excellent pocket version of the Tao Te Ching, then this comes thoroughly recommended. If you're looking for a different interpretation & space isn't an issue, then I've found this version: Tao Te Ching equally powerful.And whatever happens, I wish you luck on your journey towards spiritual enlightenment.

Very good quality book. Perfect for the back pocket of your pants. Just like you would find in a retail store. Everyone should read this.

I read a lot and this book always pops up so I decided to get a nice neat pocket size version. I can't speak highly of it enough. Its said to be one of the wises books ever written and I don't disagree.I read a single parable everyday for a week then I move onto the next one (11 weeks down 70 more to go lol).I wouldn't considered it to be a religion but more of a philosophy on Nature.DO NOT LEAVE THE PLANET WITHOUT HAVING READ and/or STUDIED THIS BOOK!!! Thanks ;)

Pocket edition. It said pocket in big enough letters in the description but I still missed it. This is actually a very cute size, and if it had been a miniature of the full size edition I would have given it 5 stars and bought some new reading glasses. This has sadly only the translated verses, and not the Chinese on the facing pages that the larger version has. Its not my favourite translation for which I recommend the Richard Wilhelm edition (which is only slightly larger in the Arkana version that I have).Nice white paper, glossy cover, easily accessible translation, fit in a child's pocket, looks cute.