Discussing the Tao Te Ching – Part 2: “Virtue”

Hi Folks,

Please join us for part two of our two-part group discussion on the Tao Te Ching, the foundational text of Taoist philosophy authored by Laozi. Find details on Part 1 here. This short yet profound classic explores timeless questions about the nature of existence, virtue, and how to live in harmony with the world.

### 📖 About the Text

The Tao Te Ching is traditionally divided into two parts:

• Part 1: Chapters 1–37 — The Tao (道)
  “The Way” — explores the ineffable nature of reality, the mystery of existence, natural flow, and the principle of non-doing (wu wei). These verses are abstract, poetic, and contemplative.
• Part 2: Chapters 38–81 — The Te (德)
  “Virtue” or “Inner Power” — focuses on how the Tao is expressed in human character, ethics, and behavior. Themes include effortless virtue, humility, compassion, and simplicity.

Each chapter is short and typically takes around 60 seconds to read aloud.

### 📚 Reading & Participation

You are welcome to read the full set of chapters in advance (1–37 for Part 1, 38–81 for Part 2), but it’s not mandatory. During each session, we’ll read aloud 5 selected chapters, followed by small group discussions for deeper reflection.

> Feel free to read any translation — chapter titles vary. Below are the selected readings using titles from Sam Torode’s 2021 edition, which is based on Dwight Goddard’s 1919 translation (public domain). The first chapter name is from Goddard and the second in parentheses from Torode, if differently translated. For convenience I've made a collation of our selection here.

### We have completed Part 1 Readings last event, so please proceed directly to Part 2:

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### 🌱 Part 2 Readings: “The Te” (Ch. 38–81) - Friday August 15th - 5pm to 7pm

• Chapter 38 – A Discussion about Teh (True Virtue)
• Chapter 49 – The Virtue (Teh) of Trust (Universality)
• Chapter 63 – A Consideration of Beginnings (Small Beginnings)
• Chapter 67 – Three Treasures (Compassion)
• Chapter 81 – The Nature of the Essential (True Words)

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### 💬 Discussion Format

• Each session will include five breakout discussions, one for each featured chapter.
• Expect ~20 minutes per breakout, with time to share insights at the end.
• Bring your curiosity, questions, and personal reflections.

### Location

Brighton Memorial Library, RSVP for the address and room details.

### Event Details

This event is welcoming to all. For more details about the group check out the website.

### Questions or Feedback?

If you have any questions or wish to provide feedback, feel free to reach out to me on Meetup.

Best Regards,
Ryan