Laozi

Who He Was

Laozi (variously spelled, , low-TSUH; Chinese: 老子; pinyin: Lǎozǐ) was a legendary Chinese philosopher considered to be the author of the Tao Te Ching (Pinyin: Dào Dé Jīng), one of the foundational texts of Taoism. Modern scholarship generally regards his biographical details as later inventions and his opus a collaboration of various writers, with the name Laozi, literally meaning 'Old Master', likely intended to portray an archaic anonymity that could converse with Confucianism. Traditional accounts addend him as Li Er, born in the 6th-century BC state of Chu during China's Spring and Autumn period (c. 770 – c. 481 BC). Serving as the royal archivist for the Zhou court at Wangcheng (modern Luoyang), he met and impressed Confucius (c. 551 – c. 479 BC) on one occasion, composing the Dào Dé Jīng in a single session before retiring into the western wilderness.

A central figure in Chinese culture, Laozi is generally considered the founder of Taoism. He was claimed and revered as the ancestor of the Tang dynasty (618–907) and is similarly honored in modern China as the progenitor of the popular surname Li. In some sects of Taoism, Chinese Buddhism, Confucianism, and Chinese folk religion, it is held that he then became an immortal hermit. Certain Taoist devotees held that the Dào Dé Jīng was the avatar – embodied as a book – of the god Laojun, one of the Three Pure Ones of the Taoist pantheon, though few philosophers believe this. The Dào Dé Jīng had a profound influence on Chinese religious movements and on subsequent Chinese philosophers, who annotated, commended, and criticized the texts extensively. In the 20th century, textual criticism by historians led to theories questioning Laozi's timing or even existence, positing that the received text of the Dào Dé Jīng was not composed until the Warring States period (c. 475 – 221 BC), and was the product of multiple authors. Recognized in: Taoism.

The semi-legendary founding sage of Taoism, honored as a teacher and (in religious Taoism) a deity — a sage-founder rather than a 'prophet'.

Birth and Early Life

Traditional and historical sources place Laozi in the era of 6th century BCE (traditional/legendary). Where such dates are traditional, mythic, or disputed rather than historically established, they should be read as the tradition's own reckoning rather than confirmed chronology.

His Calling / Mission

The scriptures and traditions of Taoism describe the calling and mission of Laozi; the key passages are listed under Sacred Texts and Scripture below.

Religion and Teachings

Laozi is honored within Taoism. The semi-legendary founding sage of Taoism, honored as a teacher and (in religious Taoism) a deity — a sage-founder rather than a 'prophet'. His teaching and significance are set out in the sacred texts that record his life.

Sacred Texts and Scripture

Scriptural references: the Tao Te Ching

Major Accomplishments and Events

The account of Laozi's life, works, and significance is preserved in the scriptures cited above and in the living tradition of Taoism.

Death and Legacy

Laozi is remembered across Taoism as one of the foundational figures of faith, and continues to be honored in scripture, devotion, and scholarship. Source: Wikipedia