Daoist Classics

Explore the wisdom of classical Daoism through its original texts.

This channel presents clear, carefully researched explainers on the great works of the Daoist tradition: the Dàodéjīng (Tao Te Ching) of Lǎozǐ, the Zhuāngzǐ, the Lièzǐ, the Wénzǐ, the Huáinánzǐ and the Inner Cultivation chapters of the Guǎnzǐ, along with the classic commentaries of Wáng Bì and Héshàng Gōng.

We look at the key ideas of the tradition: the Dào, Dé (virtue), wúwéi (effortless action), naturalness, and yīn and yáng. We also look at how Daoism shaped breath cultivation, Tàijíquán and Chinese medicine, and how it compares with Buddhism and other contemplative paths.

The videos draw on new translations from the Classical Chinese by Shaun C. R. Ramsden. Where an idea goes beyond mainstream scholarship, we say so clearly.

New videos on Daoist texts, ideas and practice.