The Wisdom of Laotse: Translated, Edited and with an Introduction and Notes

Lao Tzu (/ˈlaʊ ˈtsuː/), also rendered as Laozi (Chinese: 老子, Mandarin: Lǎozǐ, meaning “Old Master”) and sometimes written as Lao-Tze, was an ancient Chinese philosopher and writer. He is traditionally regarded as the author of the Tao Te Ching, the foundational text of philosophical Taoism, and is also revered as a deity in religious Taoism and traditional Chinese religion.A semi-legendary figure, Lao Tzu is often portrayed as a 6th-century BCE contemporary of Confucius during the Spring and Autumn period. However, many modern historians believe he may have lived later, possibly during the Warring States period in the 4th century BCE.A central figure in Chinese culture, Laozi has been honored by later generations. Emperors of the Tang dynasty claimed him as an ancestor of the imperial Li family, and many people with the surname Li regard him as a founder of their lineage. His teachings have influenced a wide range of philosophical and political traditions, including Taoism and even aspects of Chinese Legalism.The honorific title Lao Tzu has been romanized in several different ways, which sometimes causes confusion. The form “Lao Tzu” comes from the older Wade–Giles romanization system. Other spellings include Lao-tse, Lao-Tzu, and the modern Laozi or Lao Zi based on the Pinyin system.In religious Taoism, Laozi is worshipped under the title “Supreme Old Lord” (太上老君, Tàishàng Lǎojūn) and is considered one of the Three Pure Ones, the highest deities in the Taoist pantheon. During the Tang dynasty he was also honored with the imperial title “Supremely Mysterious and Primordial Emperor” (太上玄元皇帝, Tàishàng Xuānyuán Huángdì). Read more