In the Shadows of the Dao

Laozi, the Sage, and the Daodejing

By Thomas Michael | Publisher: State University of New York Press

About the book

Thomas Michael's study of the early history of the Daodejing reveals that the work is grounded in a unique tradition of early Daoism, one unrelated to other early Chinese schools of thought and practice. The text is associated with a tradition of hermits committed to yangsheng, a particular practice of physical cultivation involving techniques of breath circulation in combination with specific bodily movements leading to a physical union with the Dao. Michael explores the ways in which the text systematically anchored these techniques to a Dao-centered worldview. Including a new translation of the Daodejing, In the Shadows of the Dao opens new approaches to understanding the early history of one of the world's great religious texts and great religious traditions.

Editions of In the Shadows of the Dao

Hardcover
ISBN 9781438458977
Paperback
ISBN 9781438458984
PDF
ISBN 9781438458991

Read an Excerpt

Thomas Michael's study of the early history of the Daodejing reveals that the work is grounded in a unique tradition of early Daoism, one unrelated to other early Chinese schools of thought and practice. The text is associated with a tradition of hermits committed to yangsheng, a particular practice of physical cultivation involving techniques of breath circulation in combination with specific bodily movements leading to a physical union with the Dao. Michael explores the ways in which the text systematically anchored these techniques to a Dao-centered worldview. Including a new translation of the Daodejing, In the Shadows of the Dao opens new approaches to understanding the early history of one of the world's great religious texts and great religious traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is In the Shadows of the Dao about?

Thomas Michael's study of the early history of the Daodejing reveals that the work is grounded in a unique tradition of early Daoism, one unrelated to other early Chinese schools of thought and practice. The text is associated with a tradition of hermits committed to yangsheng, a particular practice of physical cultivation involving techniques of breath circulation in combination with specific bodily movements leading to a physical union with the Dao. Michael explores the ways in which the text systematically anchored these techniques to a Dao-centered worldview. Including a new translation of the Daodejing, In the Shadows of the Dao opens new approaches to understanding the early history of one of the world's great religious texts and great religious traditions.

What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in In the Shadows of the Dao?

Philosophy and Religion > Religion and beliefs > Further religions and spiritual beliefs, > East Asian religions and spiritual beliefs > Taoism

Where can I read a sample of In the Shadows of the Dao?

You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9781438458977

How long is In the Shadows of the Dao and how many pages does it have?

In the Shadows of the Dao has 332 page(s)

Is In the Shadows of the Dao part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?

Yes it is a part of series SUNY series in Chinese Philosophy and Culture

Who is/are the Author/s of the book In the Shadows of the Dao?

Thomas Michael

Who is the Publisher of the book In the Shadows of the Dao?

State University of New York Press

What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?

In the Shadows of the Dao is available as hardcover(ISBN 9781438458977) and paperback(ISBN 9781438458984) and pdf(ISBN 9781438458991)

Where can I buy In the Shadows of the Dao online or support local independent bookshops?

You can buy In the Shadows of the Dao from below

Where can I buy In the Shadows of the Dao?