The Secret Tao: Uncovering the hidden history and meaning of Lao Tzu - Softcover

D. W. Kreger

9780983309901: The Secret Tao: Uncovering the hidden history and meaning of Lao Tzu

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0983309906 ISBN 13: 9780983309901

Publisher: Windham Everitt Publishing, 2011

A refreshing alternative to many books on Taoism, this book uses an archaeological and historical approach to uncover the origins of Taoist philosophy. Dr. Kreger poses the question: Did the concept of Taoism predate the writings of Lao Tzu, who lived 2500 years ago? And, if so, then how old is it? Dr. Kreger then skillfully points out connections between key concepts of Lao Tzu and that of Neolithic shamanism and early goddess worship. Using this approach, he uncovers mystical elements of the Tao, which have previously eluded scholars and seekers for ages. The author, Dr. Kreger, has spent over 10 years researching the history and archaeology of ancient Taoism in order to write this book. Now the world can share the startling discoveries made in his exploration of the Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu. The book also contains a revised translation of the Tao Te Ching, in an informative and innovative new format. This translation presents all 81 verses in the original Chinese, in a literal English transliteration, and in a figurative English translation, all side by side for easy comparison. The verses are also complemented by stark and haunting, black and white photographs of nature, making this book as beautiful as it is meaningful. Finally, the Secret Tao is revealed.

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About the Author:

D. W. Kreger is a clinical psychologist, an expert on the occult, and a researcher in the fields of psychology, archaeology, and spirituality. He holds a Ph.D. in psychology, completed his post-doctoral training in neuropsychology, and is a Diplomate of the International Academy of Behavioral Medicine, Counseling, and Psychotherapy. In addition to his psychological research, he has investigated archaeological sites in 17 countries around the world. His work has been presented at major academic conferences, and appeared in both research and popular media. Currently he teaches psychology at MacLauren Institute, and is a consulting clinical psychologist in private practice.

Review:

Joseph Campbell showed us the timeless wonder of ancient texts, now D. W. Kreger shows us the inner world of the Tao Te Ching. This thoughtful exploration of the history and implications of the classic work is truly illuminating. The Secret Tao opens new levels of understading of a profound teaching. --Jonathan Young, PhD; editor, SAGA: Best New Writings on Mythology, and founding curator of the Joseph Campbell Archives.

Kreger's rendering sensitively advances our understanding of the original passages in numerous ways, infusing them with current terms like 'sustainable' and feminist ideals such as that 'the Universe is the Mother of Creation.' Thus, The Secret Tao subtly modernizes the ancient text, stretching and expanding, but not overriding, its intent... He carefully provides details of his 'telegraphic' translation method, analyzes significant linguistic points, and lists reference materials. --Barbara Bamberger Scott, US Review of Books

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