This new translation reveals one of the most important and influential of Chinese texts in its full glory, and recaptures the flow and power of the original writings. Likened by the translators to a string of perfectly rounded pearls, the Toa Te Ching's eighty chapters of wise sayings and commentaries on the self and our relation to society are viewed here not only as individual and separate teachings, but as existing within an overall unifying pattern and beauty. They light the way to a deeper understanding of the self and of the world. This is essential reading for all those with an interest in ancient wisdom, and for everyone who has read previous translations.