The Tao of Christ: A Christian Version of the Tao Te Ching

by Marshall Davis, Lao Tzu

The Tao of Christ is a Christian interpretation of the sixth century BC Chinese classic, the Tao Te Ching. It translates this ancient work into concepts and language recognizable to Christians, while maintaining the integrity of the ancient text. The Tao of Christ bridges the gap between East and West. It sheds light on two great spiritual traditions. Those who love the Tao Te Ching will see Christianity in a new light. Christians who love Christ will see this ancient Chinese work as evidence of God’s wider revelation to all peoples.

Genres: Christianity, Christian, Philosophy, Spirituality, Taoism, Religion, Faith

91 pages, Paperback

First published December 18, 2013

Reviews

[Phil · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the translator’s preface:

“I am a Christian who loves the Tao Te Ching. I loved the Tao Te Ching before I loved Christ. When I came to know Christ, I recognized Him as the One celebrated in the Tao Te Ching. . . . Christ is the Tao.”

Marshall convincingly explains the connection and shows why it does not conflict with orthodox Christianity. Boiled down, Jesus called himself “the Way,” and “Tao” means “the Way” in English. Also, “Tao” is a proper translation of “Logos” in the first verse of John, which is well-understood as referring to Christ: “In the beginning was the Tao. And the Tao was with God and the Tao was God.” You might say Jesus was the Tao in the flesh. Marshall has more to say, and the preface is well worth reading.

This is my second time through this short book. It consists of 81 chapters — each roughly the length of a short psalm. In terms of content, I think its central theme roughly corresponds to the Christian concept of grace. I have not found such a close connection with any of the other world religions I have read about.

I think this book is best read slowly and thoughtfully rather than cover-to-cover, at a pace of, say, one chapter per day. It could profitably be worked in with a daily scripture reading practice. Going forward, I will likely read it in this manner.

[Brian Wilcox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many renditions of the Tao Te Ching, like this, are paraphrases, not translations. Nevertheless, this is a good effort at highlighting "Christ" transcends the oft-equating of "Christ" with only a single man - Jesus. Likewise, this work provides a wisdom-look at this Way - Word, Christ - in contrast to the way of doctrine (propositional) with which, unfortunately, Christianity has become known. If Christianity had seen itself as a wisdom movement - Jesus is a wisdom teacher in the Gospels, not a dogma spreader -that faith would have taken a much different shape in its historical evolution and be much more popular today in our world, which so much needs now - and always - the guidance of sages, not preachers and priests of dogma. Hence, I question this being, as in the subtitle, A Christian Version..., for it seems "Christian" as used among most Christians does not represent wisdom principally but institution and dogma. Of course, the author may rightly interpret "Christian" otherwise, which many non-dogmatic, non-institutional Christians do.

[Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I get a lot of value out of the Tao Te Ching and have multiple translations. I’ve always felt there are many echoes of early Christianity present, and greatly appreciate this version. Some passages paraphrase sections from the gospels and some are more modern takes on The original, but it is very beautifully written. I’ll keep this and refer to it regularly!

[John Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this and followed right along with the podcast "A Christian reads the Tao." I would highly recommend checking the podcast out. The starting point for the podcasts is Tao te Ching,
"That ancient book of Chinese wisdom and spirituality that didn't draw me away from a Christ centered faith but actually helped me hold on to it."
Corey Farr

[Danny Trussell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful Understanding Of The Tao of Christ

Marshall takes the Tao Te Ching and see through the lens of Jesus Christ. I read it alongside an English translation of Tao Te Ching. Both give powerful insights into the Tao.

I believe if Jesus is the Divine Logos, He is also the Divine Tao.

[ger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice idea. The Tao is 'The Way' and Jesus said "I am the Way, the Truth and the Light". I've always felt Jesus was a Taoist and have argued it for years.
A simple translation which may not add to the depth of Lao Tzu's work but a nice introduction.

[Brian Ubben · Rating 1 out of 5]

Wouldn't recommend.

Too many instances of contradiction of biblical scripture (and history). I.e. 'Humanity is good'. The Bible...'There is none righteous, not one.' 'All have sinned', etc.

[rumbledethumps · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting interpretation of the Tao Te Ching that attempts to show the universality of spiritual beliefs.

[Robert · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good stuff. Best read with a group.

[Amanda Hunnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good interpretation of the Tao for those with a Christian background. Worth reading again and again.

[Brittney Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super interesting interpretation

[jasen m denault · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well worth the money

This is a really great book filled with wise words for modern times. I can't recommend this book highly enough.

[R.S. Veira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightfully profound.

[Russell Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent translation! A breath of fresh air for Christians who appreciate the wisdom of the Tao Te Ching.