Laozi
604 BCE – 531 BCE Chinese philosopher
The legendary founder of Taoism and reputed author of the Tao Te Ching.
- Religion
- Founding figure of Taoism, teaching harmony with the Tao, the underlying way of nature. His historical existence and dates are legendary and disputed.
- Affiliations
- None. Traditionally an archive keeper of the Zhou court.
Laozi is the traditional author of the Tao Te Ching, the brief and enigmatic text at the root of Taoism. It teaches yielding, simplicity, and living in accord with the natural way. Whether he was a single historical person is unknown, but his book shaped Chinese religion, art, and politics.