The Tao Te Ching is a classic Chinese text traditionally attributed to Laozi, an archivist said to have lived in the sixth century BCE, though it was probably compiled later. In eighty-one short chapters, it describes the Tao, the way that underlies all things, and praises simplicity, humility and non-action. It is one of the most translated books in the world.
The way and its power
The title can be translated as the classic of the way and its virtue. The Tao is described as nameless, empty and inexhaustible, the source of everything.
The second part of the title, te, refers to the power or virtue of one who lives in harmony with the Tao.
Paradoxes
The text is full of paradoxes: the soft overcomes the hard, the empty is useful, the one who yields endures.
Its ideal ruler governs lightly, without forcing, and its ideal sage does not seek fame or possessions.
Translations
The text has been translated hundreds of times. James Legge's English version appeared in 1891 in the Sacred Books of the East, under the title Tâo Teh King.
Its brevity and openness have allowed very different readings, philosophical, political and poetic.
Anecdotes
The legend of the border
According to a traditional story, Laozi was leaving China on a water buffalo when a border guard asked him to write down his wisdom. He wrote the book and disappeared.
Ancient manuscripts
Silk manuscripts of the text found at Mawangdui in 1973, and bamboo slips found at Guodian in 1993, are among the oldest known versions.
Frequently asked questions
Who is said to have written the Tao Te Ching?
Laozi, a legendary sage.
How many chapters does it have?
Eighty-one.
What does Tao mean?
The way, the principle underlying all things.