Title
Early Chinese Mysticism : Philosophy and Soteriology in the Taoist Tradition,New
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Did Chinese mysticism vanish after its first appearance in ancient Taoist philosophy, to surface only after a thousand years had passed, when the Chinese had adapted Buddhism to their own culture? This first integrated survey of the mystical dimension of Taoism disputes the commonly accepted idea of such a hiatus. Covering the period from the Daode jing to the end of the Tang, Livia Kohn reveals an often misunderstood Chinese mystical tradition that continued through the ages. Influenced by but ultimately independent of Buddhism, it took forms more various than the quietistic withdrawal of Laozi or the sudden enlightenment of the Chan Buddhists. On the basis of a new theoretical evaluation of mysticism, this study analyzes the relationship between philosophical and religious Taoism and between Buddhism and the native Chinese tradition. Kohn shows how the quietistic and socially oriented Daode jing was combined with the ecstatic and individualistic mysticism of the Zhuangzi, with immortality beliefs and practices, and with Buddhist insight meditation, mind analysis, and doctrines of karma and retribution. She goes on to demonstrate that Chinese mysticism, a complex synthesis by the late Six Dynasties, reached its zenith in the Tang, laying the foundations for later developments in the Song traditions of Inner Alchemy, Chan Buddhism, and NeoConfucianism.
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- Q: What is the page count of this book? A: The book has two hundred thirty-four pages. This length provides an in-depth exploration of early Chinese mysticism and Taoist philosophy.
- Q: What are the dimensions of this book? A: The book measures six inches in length, nine inches in height, and zero point fifty-eight inches in width. These dimensions make it a convenient size for reading.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book is paperback bound. The paperback format makes it lightweight and easy to handle.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of the book is Livia Kohn. She is recognized for her expertise in Taoist studies and Chinese mysticism.
- Q: What is the genre of this book? A: The book falls under the category of Tao Te Ching. It delves into philosophical and religious aspects of Taoism.
- Q: How should I read this book? A: You can read this book at your own pace. It is suitable for anyone interested in philosophy, mysticism, or Chinese culture.
- Q: Is this book appropriate for beginners? A: Yes, this book is suitable for beginners. It provides a comprehensive introduction to Taoist mysticism without requiring prior knowledge.
- Q: What age group is this book suitable for? A: This book is suitable for adults and older teens. Its themes are complex and may not be suitable for younger readers.
- Q: How do I keep this book in good condition? A: To keep the book in good condition, store it in a dry place and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight. Handling it with clean hands can also help preserve its quality.
- Q: Can I clean this book if it gets dirty? A: Yes, you can gently wipe the cover with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions to prevent damage.
- Q: What should I do if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you can contact customer support for a return or exchange. Be sure to provide details about the damage.
- Q: Is there a return policy for this book? A: Yes, there is a return policy in place. Typically, you can return the book within a specified period if you are unsatisfied.
- Q: How does this book compare to other books on Taoism? A: This book offers a unique perspective on Taoism by integrating historical and philosophical insights. It stands out for its thorough examination of mysticism within the tradition.
- Q: What specific themes does this book explore? A: The book explores themes of mysticism, philosophical Taoism, and the relationship between Taoism and Buddhism. It provides a detailed analysis of these connections.
- Q: Is this book suitable for academic study? A: Yes, this book is suitable for academic study. It offers a scholarly approach to Taoist philosophy and can serve as a valuable resource for research.
- Q: Does this book include references or a bibliography? A: Yes, the book includes references and a bibliography. This allows readers to explore further readings and sources related to its topics.