Lao Tzu and Tao Te Ching Overview

Founder of Taoism, a Chinese philosopher who lived around the 6th century BCE.

Most important book in Taoism, containing poems about the Tao (the Way).

The Way; the ultimate reality, source of all existence, and the principle behind the natural world.

A Chinese philosophy that emphasizes living in harmony with nature.

Another name for the Tao Te Ching, referencing the author.

The ultimate principle in Taoism; the path to understanding the natural world, and to living in harmony with it.

Approximate time period when Lao Tzu lived and influenced early Chinese thought.

A collection of diverse works from many different creators.

In Taoism, Te represents virtue, power, or the persuasive ability that comes from living a morally upright life in accordance with the Tao.

One of the two fundamental, complementary forces in Chinese philosophy, symbolizing the feminine, passive, dark, and receptive aspects of nature. Corresponds to the shady or cloudy.

One of the two fundamental, complementary forces in Chinese philosophy, symbolizing the masculine, active, bright, and assertive aspects of nature. Corresponds to sunlight or clear sky.

The concept in Chinese philosophy representing the duality of opposing yet interdependent forces in the universe.

Yin and Yang in Taoism, always work together and cannot exist without the other.

The essential concept of yin-yang, where opposites do not conflict but rather work in tandem to create a balanced and dynamic reality.

Yin and yang are interconnected, as one cannot exist without the other. They define each other's meaning and existence.

Taoism teaches the importance of accepting both yin and yang, as they are equally crucial in understanding reality and achieving balance in life.

A concept in Taoism that translates to "non-action." It means acting in harmony with the natural order of the universe, without forcing or imposing your will.

Another interpretation of Wuwei. It describes how actions aligned with the Tao feel natural and effortless, like a bird soaring in the sky.

The goal of Wuwei. Living in agreement with the natural course of the universe, achieving a state of balance and peace.

A description of the Sage's role in Taoism. They represent the human embodiment of the Tao, connecting the earthly realm with the cosmic.

The Sage is seen as the ideal human, embodying the virtues of wisdom, compassion, and harmony with the Tao.

The Sage serves as a guide for others to emulate their example of living in harmony with the Tao.

Translates to 'returning', representing the natural cycle of birth, growth, decay, and return to the origin, a fundamental concept in Taoism.

The ultimate reality or principle governing the universe. It encompasses the Way, the unnamable source of all things and the natural order.

The ultimate goal in Taoism is to return to the source, to a state of natural harmony and simplicity by releasing ego and attachments.

The Tao is often described as 'empty' because it is devoid of fixed form or defined qualities, allowing it to be everything and nothing at once.

The Taoist concept of 'transcending opposites' means embracing the duality of life and death, good and bad, and understanding their interconnectedness.

The concept of the Tao as the natural order of the universe suggests that the universe is governed by inherent principles of balance and change.

The Taoist view of life is a cyclic one, characterized by birth, growth, decay, and return to the source, suggesting a continuous process of transformation.

Refers to the vast and diverse totality of the physical world, including everything that exists and constantly changes, symbolizing interconnectedness and harmony in the universe.

The Heavenly Worthy of Primordial Being/Beginning, ruling the first heaven (Yu Qing), embodying the primordial essence of the Tao. He is associated with the Jade Emperor.

The Heavenly Worthy of the Numinous Treasure, governing the second heaven (Shang Qing), embodying the mysterious and miraculous aspects of the Tao, and associated with governing time.

The Heavenly Worthy of the Tao and Its Power, ruling the third heaven (Tai Qing), embodying the power and virtue of the Tao. He is seen as the embodiment of Lao-Tzu.

A Taoist Trinity, consisting of Yuanshi Tianzun, Lingbao Tianzun, and Daode Tianzun, who represent the three heavens (Jade Purity, Great Purity, and Highest Purity) and embody the evolution of the Tao across different realms.

The constant interplay and balance of opposing forces (feminine/masculine, passive/active, dark/light) that create the Ten Thousand Things and manifest the Tao.

The regular, recurring patterns of change in the natural world, like the seasons or the growth and decay of life, demonstrate the ever-evolving nature of the Tao and the Ten Thousand Things.

According to the Tao Te Ching, the ultimate principle (Tao) gave rise to the One (representing the unity of all things), which then gave birth to the Two (Yin and Yang), and finally, the Ten Thousand Things.