Liezi
The Liezi, also known as the Lieh Tzu, is a collection of Taoist teachings by Lie Yukou, a philosopher and thinker from ancient China. Unlike some other Taoist texts that focus more on the nature of the Tao or the Way, the Liezi is all about sharing wisdom through storytelling. It's like sitting around a campfire, listening to fascinating tales that carry hidden lessons about life and the universe.
The Liezi covers a wide range of topics, exploring concepts like naturalism, spontaneity, and the art of living harmoniously with the world. Through its fascinating and profound stories, it offers insights into human nature, society, and the mysteries of existence.
Liezi's favorite topic is "ziran," which means naturalness. It's like going with the flow of life, being as natural as a breeze in the trees. Lieh Tzu would tell stories about birds, trees, and even water buffaloes to show how living in harmony with nature is the key to a happy life. It's like saying, "Hey, sometimes the best things happen when you're not trying too hard."
Another impressive thing is how Liezi shares ideas about how to live a simple and genuine life. It talks about letting go of unnecessary stuff, both physically and in our minds, and finding happiness in simplicity. It's like a reminder to chill out and not get caught up in chasing things we don't really need.
The Liezi has been around for ages and has influenced a lot of folks who are into Taoism and philosophy. This isn't your typical heavy philosophy book. It's more like a friendly chat with a wise storyteller who wants you to see the world in a new light. So, if you're into stories that make you think and smile, Liezi might just be your cup of tea!
Link to buy: https://www.amazon.com/Lieh-tzu-Taoist-Practical-Shambhala-Editions/dp/1570628998/
Link to read: https://sacred-texts.com/tao/tt/index.htm