THE THREE MAIN BOOKS OF CHINESE PHILOSOPHY
The three main books of Chinese philosophy are the I-Ching ( The Book of Change ), The book of Tao-Te Ching ( Lao Zi ) and The Art of War. The I-Ching is the oldest of these books and covers principles and rules for the proper understanding of the flow and changes of the universe, earth and human being. The Tao-te Ching by Lao Tzu teaches the growth of the individual soul through the acknowledgment of the human individual as being in nature and not removed from it. The Art of War by Sun Tzu is more practical and various ways to, analyse and plan for the future. It is involved with all matters of competition, so is excellent for business.
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All Chinese philosophies are based upon the principles in the book of I-Ching. This book had its origins approximately 8000 years ago, however the current translations are based upon books written about 3000 years ago, when I-Ching became popular. This book was originally written by the first Emperor of the Zhou Dynasty, the knowledge was passed down through the rulers of the Zhou Dynasty, that was prosperous and stable for 800 years. This book contains all of the general questions pertaining to structure and phenomenon of the universe (Heaven) and nature (Earth), as well as the practical application of living, psychological, philosophical, numerical questions (Human Being). These books are mostly involved in the principle of Yin-Yang, and the rules for the development and control of the universe and the individual. With proper understanding and use of the laws and principles in this book it is believed that the individual will be able to adapt and understand too all of the situations that they may find themselves in and have an understanding of how it came to be and how it will result. One of the most accurate translations is by James Legges. Available in hardcover $32.95 |
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This book was written by Lao Tzu in approximately 300 BC. In this book the individual is taught to see themselves as part of the flow of the universe, and hence to adapt themselves and their actions from those that deal with themselves as centre of the universe to merely a part in the greater picture. According to the rules of Lao Tzu the individual will learn to live in greater harmony with their environment without conflicting with its rules as in the human belief in the importance of self. The Tao te Ching helps explain the principles of nature and how they affect human life. paper back $26.95 |
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This book was written by Sun Tzu between 770BC and 476BC. This book has thirteen chapters, the first six deal with strategy, the following chapters deal with tactics. This book tells the most efficient way to achieve success in areas of business and competition. The best translation of this book is by L. Cyiles, then Assistant Curator of the Oriental Books Section of the British Museum this translation was done in 1910. paper back $19.95 |