A Path and a Practice

The Tao Te Ching—one of the most loved and widely translated books in human history—has appeared in countless English-language versions. But no modern translation has yet captured the essential thrust of Lao Tzu’s work as a practical guide to living an awakened life. Now William Martin, whose acclaimed previous reinterpretations of the Tao (for parents, couples, and elders) have introduced or reacquainted this classic text to thousands of readers, strikingly translates the Tao’s eighty-one chapters to uniquely address someone on a Tao—or path—with a practice. Martin frames his new translation with two illuminating, groundbreaking sections: “A Path,” which introduces the Tao’s nonlinear construction and explains how it works its themes; and “A Practice,” which provides practical guidance for readers exploring each of the Tao’s themes in depth. Martin’s genius in this new translation uncovers how directly the Tao speaks to readers on or about to embark on a spiritual journey.

“A Path and a Practice is just that: “a” way rather than a prescription for “the” way to begin a spiritual journey. I’ve use it as a morning meditation for a year now. When a friend borrowed it, and kept it, I bought a second copy. The beautiful imagery in the poems remind me to look closely and pause with the beautiful moments in my own neighborhood. They’re hidden in secret corners, waiting for those of us who slow down and are willing to see them. The meditations in this book taught me how to slow down and take in the richness this life holds for us. I recommend it for everyone even curious about finding their own way, their own spiritual journey.” – a reader

Purchase from Amazon

Purchase from Indiebound