Lao-Tzu or Laozi (Chinese: 老子; pinyin: Lǎozǐ; Wade-Giles: Laosi; also Lao Tse, Laotze, Lao Zi, Laocius, and other variations) was a philosopher of ancient China and is a central figure in Taoism (also spelled "Daoism"). Lao Tzu literally means "Old Master" and is generally considered an honorific. Laozi is revered as a god in religious forms of Taoism. Taishang Laojun is a title for Laozi in the Taoist religion, which refers to him as "One of the Three Pure Ones".
According to Chinese tradition, Lao Tzu lived in the 6th century BC. Historians variously contend that Lao Tzu is a synthesis of multiple historical figures, that he is a mythical figure, or that he actually lived in the 4th century BC, concurrent with the Hundred Schools of Thought and Warring States Period. A central figure in Chinese culture, both nobility and common people claim Lao Tzu in their lineage. Zhuangzi, widely considered the intellectual and spiritual successor of Lao Tzu, had a notable impact on Chinese literature, culture and spirituality. Throughout history, Lao Tzu's work was embraced by various anti-authoritarian movements.
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About Lao Tzu (Laozi)
Lao Tzu is traditionally regarded as the author of the Daodejing (Tao Te Ching), though its authorship has been debated throughout history.
The earliest reliable reference (circa 100 BC) to Laozi is found in the Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji) by Chinese historian Sima Qian (ca. 145–86 BC), which combines three stories. In the first, Laozi was said to be a contemporary of Confucius (551-479 BC). His surname was Li (李 "plum"), and his personal name was Er (耳 "ear") or Dan (聃 "long ear"). He was an official in the imperial archives, and wrote a book in two parts before departing to the West. In the second, Laozi was Lao Laizi (老來子 "Old Master"), also a contemporary of Confucius, who wrote a book in 15 parts. In the third, Laozi was the Grand Historian and astrologer Lao Dan (老聃 "Old Long-ears"), who lived during the reign (384-362 BC) of Duke Xian (獻公) of Qin).
Popular legends say that he was conceived when his mother gazed upon a falling star, stayed in the womb for sixty-two years, and was born when his mother leaned against a plum tree. He accordingly emerged a grown man with a full grey beard and long earlobes, which are a symbol of wisdom and long life. In other versions he was reborn in some thirteen incarnations since the days of Fuxi; in his last incarnation as Laozi he lived to nine hundred and ninety years, and traveled to India to reveal the Dao.
According to popular traditional biographies, he worked as the Keeper of the Archives for the royal court of Zhou. This reportedly allowed him broad access to the works of the Yellow Emperor and other classics of the time. The stories assert that Laozi never opened a formal school, but he nonetheless attracted a large number of students and loyal disciples. There are numerous variations of a story depicting Confucius consulting Laozi about rituals.
Many of the popular accounts say that Laozi married and had a son named Zong, who became a celebrated soldier. A large number of people trace their lineage back to Laozi, as the Tang Dynasty did. According to Simpkins & Simpkins, many (if not all) of the lineages may be inaccurate. However, they are a testament to the impact of Laozi on Chinese culture.
Traditional accounts state that Laozi grew weary of the moral decay of city life and noted the kingdom's decline. According to these legends, he ventured west to live as a hermit in the unsettled frontier at the age of 160. At the western gate of the city, or kingdom, he was recognized by a guard. The sentry asked the old master to produce a record of his wisdom. This is the legendary origin of the Daodejing. In some versions of the tale, the sentry is so touched by the work that he leaves with Laozi to never be seen again. Some legends elaborate further that the "Old Master" was the teacher of the Buddha, or the Buddha himself.
By the mid-twentieth century, a consensus had emerged among scholars that the historicity of Laozi was doubtful or unprovable and that the Daodejing was "a compilation of Taoist sayings by many hands originating in the -4th century." Alan Watts (1975) held that this view was part of an academic fashion for skepticism about historical spiritual and religious figures, arguing that not enough would be known for years, or possibly ever, to make a firm judgment.
Name
Laozi is an honorific title. Lao means "venerable" or "old". Zi, or Tzu, means "master". Zi was used in ancient China like a social prefix, indicating "Master", or "Sir". In popular biographies, Laozi's given name was Er, his surname was Li (forming Li Er, 李耳) and his courtesy name was Boyang. Dan is a posthumous name given to Laozi, and he is sometimes referred to as Li Dan (李聃).
During the Tang Dynasty, he was honoured as an ancestor of the dynasty after Daoists drew a connection between the dynasty's family name of Li and Laozi's bearing of the same name. He was granted the title Taishang xuanyuan huangdi, meaning "Supreme Mysterious and Primordial Emperor". Xuanyuan and Huangdi are also, respectively, the personal and proper names of the Yellow Emperor.
Tao Te Ching
The
Tao Te Ching, often considered one of the most profound and influential
works in Chinese philosophy, is a timeless masterpiece attributed to
the sage Lao Tzu. Comprising 81 short chapters or verses, this ancient
text serves as the cornerstone of Taoist thought, offering profound
insights into the nature of existence, the Way of life (Tao), and the
art of governing. The exact date of the Tao Te Ching's composition
remains uncertain, with scholars placing its origin sometime between the
6th and 4th centuries BCE. Legend attributes its creation to Lao Tzu, a
revered figure whose historical existence is shrouded in mystery and
myth.
The title Tao Te Ching translates to The Classic of the Way
and Its Power or The Book of the Way and Its Virtue. The term "Tao"
refers to the fundamental principle that underlies the universe,
encompassing both the natural order of existence and the path to
spiritual enlightenment. "Te" conveys the idea of virtue or inner power,
while "Ching" denotes a classic or canonical text. Structured as a
series of poetic verses, the Tao Te Ching offers profound reflections on
the nature of reality, the essence of human existence, and the
principles of governance. Lao Tzu employs paradoxical language and
metaphorical imagery to convey his teachings, inviting readers to
contemplate the deeper meaning behind his words. Central to the Tao Te
Ching is the concept of Tao, often described as the ineffable and
all-encompassing principle that transcends human understanding. Lao Tzu
urges individuals to align themselves with the flow of Tao, emphasizing
the importance of spontaneity, simplicity, and harmony with nature.
Throughout
the text, Lao Tzu explores the theme of wu wei, or "non-action,"
advocating for a natural and effortless way of being in the world. He
encourages individuals to cultivate a sense of inner stillness and
receptivity, allowing the Tao to guide their actions without force or
resistance. In addition to its philosophical teachings, the Tao Te Ching
also offers insights into the art of governance and leadership. Lao Tzu
advocates for a style of leadership characterized by humility,
compassion, and minimal interference, believing that the best rulers are
those who govern with wisdom and restraint.
Despite its ancient
origins, the Tao Te Ching continues to resonate with readers across
cultures and centuries, inspiring spiritual seekers, philosophers, and
leaders alike. Its timeless wisdom and profound insights into the nature
of existence ensure its enduring relevance as a guide to living a
balanced and fulfilling life in harmony with the Tao.
Daoism (Taoism)
Lao Tzu is traditionally regarded as the founder of Daoism, intimately connected with the Daodejing and "primordial" (or "original") Daoism. Popular ("religious") Daoism typically presents the Jade Emperor as the official head deity. Intellectual ("elite") Daoists, such as the Celestial Masters sect, usually present Laozi (Laojun, "Lord Lao") and the Three Pure Ones at the top of the pantheon of deities.
The story of Lao Tzu has taken on strong religious overtones since the Han dynasty. As Daoism took root, Lao Tzu was recognized as a god. Belief in the revelation of the Dao from the divine Laozi resulted in the formation of the Way of the Celestial Master, the first organized religious Daoist sect. In later mature Daoist tradition, Lao Tzu came to be seen as a personification of Dao. He is said to have undergone numerous "transformations", or taken on various guises in various incarnations throughout history to initiate the faithful in the Way. Religious Daoism often holds that the "Old Master" did not disappear after writing the Daodejing, but rather traveled to India to reveal the Dao.
Yinxi
Lao Tzu's relationship with the guardian of the western pass, named Yinxi (Wade Giles Yin Hsi), is the subject of numerous legends. It is Yinxi who asked Laozi to write down his wisdom in the traditional account of the Daodejing's creation. The story of Laozi transmitting the Daodejing to Yinxi is part of a broader theme involving Lao Tzu the deity delivering salvific truth to a suffering humanity. Regardless, the deliverance of the Daodejing was the ultimate purpose of his human incarnation. Folklore developed around Laozi and Yinxi to demonstrate the ideal interaction of Taoist master and disciple.
A seventh century work, Sandong zhunang ("Pearly Bag of the Three Caverns"), provides one account of their relationship. Laozi pretended to be a farmer when reaching the western gate, but was recognized by Yinxi, who asked to be taught by the great master. Laozi was not satisfied by simply being noticed by the guard and demanded an explanation. Yinxi expressed his deep desire to find the Tao and explained that his long study of astrology allowed him to recognize Lao Tzu's approach. Yinxi was accepted by Lao Tzu as a disciple. This is considered an exemplary interaction between Daoist master and disciple, reflecting the testing a seeker must undergo before being accepted. A would-be adherent is expected to prove his determination and talent, clearly expressing his wishes and showing that he had made progress on his own towards realizing the Tao.
The Pearly Bag of the Three Caverns continues the parallel of an adherent's quest. Yinxi received his ordination when Laozi transmitted the Daodejing, along with other texts and precepts, just as Taoist adherents receive a number of methods, teachings and scriptures at ordination. This is only an initial ordination and Yinxi still needed an additional period to perfect his faith, thus Lao Tzu gave him three years to perfect his Dao. Yinxi gave himself over to a full-time devotional life. After the appointed time, Yinxi again demonstrates determination and perfect trust, sending out a black sheep to market as the agreed sign. He eventually meets again with Laozi, who announces that Yinxi's immortal name is listed in the heavens and calls down a heavenly procession to clothe Yinxi in the garb of immortals. The story continues that Lao Tzu bestowed a number of titles upon Yinxi and took him on a journey throughout the universe, even into the nine heavens. After this fantastic journey, the two sages set out to western lands of the barbarians. The training period, reuniting and travels represent the attainment of the highest religious rank in medieval Taoism called "Preceptor of the Three Caverns". In this legend, Lao Tzu is the perfect Daoist master and Yinxi is the ideal Taoist student. Lao Tzu is presented as the Tao personified, giving his teaching to humanity for their salvation. Yinxi follows the formal sequence of preparation, testing, training and attainment.
Influence
Potential officials throughout Chinese history drew on the authority of non-Confucian sages, especially Lao Tzu and Zhuangzi, to deny serving any ruler at any time. Zhuangzi, Lao Tzu's most famous follower, had a great deal of influence on Chinese literati and culture. Zhuangzi is a central authority regarding eremitism, a particular variation of monasticism sacrificing social aspects for religious aspects of life. Zhuangzi considered eremitism the highest ideal, if properly understood.
Scholars such as Aat Vervoom have postulated that Zhuangzi advocated a hermit immersed in society. This view of eremitism holds that seclusion is hiding anonymously in society. To a Zhuangzi hermit, being unknown and drifting freely is a state of mind. This reading is based on the "inner chapters" of the self-titled Zhuangzi.
Scholars such as James Bellamy hold that this could be true and has been interpreted similarly at various points in Chinese history. However, the "outer chapters" of Zhuangzi have historically played a pivotal role in the advocacy of reclusion. While some scholars state that Lao Tzu was the central figure of Han Dynasty eremitism, historical texts do not seem to support that position.
Political theorists influenced by Lao Tzu have advocated humility in leadership and a restrained approach to statecraft, either for ethical and pacifist reasons, or for tactical ends. In a different context, various anti-authoritarian movements have embraced the Lao Tzu teachings on the power of the weak.
The economist Murray N. Rothbard suggests that Lao Tzu was the first libertarian, likening Lao Tzu's ideas on government to F.A. Hayek's theory of spontaneous order. Similarly, the Cato Institute's David Boaz includes passages from the Daodejing in his 1997 book The Libertarian Reader. Philosopher Roderick Long, however, argues that libertarian themes in Taoist thought are actually borrowed from earlier Confucian writers.
Lao Tzu quotes
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step."
"Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is Enlightenment."
"Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power."
"When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be."
"Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished."
"The sage does not hoard. The more he helps others, the more he benefits himself, The more he gives to others, the more he gets himself."
"To attain knowledge, add things every day. To attain wisdom, remove things every day."
"The softest things in the world overcome the hardest things in the world."
"Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you."
"Do the difficult things while they are easy and do the great things while they are small. A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step."
Source and additional information: Laozi