Tao Te Ching
81 chapters on the Dao, virtue, simplicity, and wu wei
By Laozi
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About this edition
Source text: Tao Te Ching (Daodejing), a classical Chinese text traditionally attributed to Laozi. James Legge's The Texts of Tâoism, part I, Sacred Books of the East vol. XXXIX (Oxford, 1891), is the historical basis for the supplied English translation. The precise Chinese witness underlying every reading has not been independently verified.
Translation source: laozi_tao-te-ching_james-legge(1).epub. English translation and commentary by James Legge, published in The Texts of Tâoism (1891). Standard Ebooks digital edition first released 2014-05-25; supplied EPUB colophon records revision f2911b5 of 2026-09-28. Based on Project Gutenberg ebook 216 (2008 transcription) and historical Google Books scans. https://standardebooks.org/ebooks/laozi/tao-te-ching/james-legge .
Rights: The supplied Standard Ebooks EPUB says its source text and artwork are believed to be in the public domain in the United States; copyright status may differ in other countries. Standard Ebooks dedicates its editorial contributions to the public domain under CC0 1.0. James Legge died in 1897, and this translation was published in 1891. This is a record of source claims, not an independent legal opinion for every territory.
Territories: US (primary listed offer); other territories require applicable copyright review.
Review scope: Not reviewed
Approved on: Oct 24, 2026
Version notes: James Legge's 1891 English translation, with preface, introduction and endnotes. Standard Ebooks digital edition, first issued 2014 and revised 2026-09-28; EPUB upload pending.
Explore Laozi's Tao Te Ching in James Legge's historic English translation, with notes and context from the Standard Ebooks edition.
Attributed to Laozi, the Tao Te Ching (Daodejing) is an 81-chapter classic of ancient Chinese philosophy and a foundational text of Daoist thought. Its brief, often paradoxical passages explore the Dao (the Way), de (virtue or inner power), wu wei (non-coercive action), humility, simplicity, desire, leadership, and living in harmony with nature. This English edition follows James Legge's 1891 translation and includes his preface, historical introduction, and scholarly notes in the Standard Ebooks text. The work's date and authorship remain subjects of debate, inviting readers to revisit its verses from different perspectives.
Who it is for
Readers interested in Daoism, ancient Chinese philosophy, contemplative living, ethical leadership, minimalism, and short classics that reward rereading.
Key ideas
- 01
The Dao and language
The Way cannot be fully captured by words or names.
- 02
Wu wei
Act without needless force, strain, or coercion.
- 03
Simplicity and desire
Explore contentment and the costs of craving.
- 04
Softness and strength
Consider the power of yielding, humility, and water.
- 05
Leadership and governance
Reflect on restraint and the limits of control.
Questions and answers
What is the Tao Te Ching?
A classic of 81 chapters associated with Laozi and central to Daoist philosophy.
Is this English edition free?
Yes, the listed edition costs nothing. The EPUB download will be added later.
Which translation does it use?
James Legge's 1891 English translation, in a Standard Ebooks digital edition with notes.
Must I know Daoism to read it?
No. Each short chapter can be read independently, though meanings are open to interpretation.
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