Lao Tzu Gia-Fu Feng (Laozi)

Lao Tzu Gia-Fu Feng (Laozi) was a great Chinese philosopher, author and scholar. He is best known as the author of the classic Chinese text Tao Te Ching, and he is also credited with founding the philosophical movement of Taoism. He was born around 6th century BC and is believed to have lived for around two centuries.

Lao-Tzu’s upbringing is not very well documented, however some sources indicate that he had a profound and rigorous education in Chinese classics. He was well versed in literature, poetry, philosophy, music and martial arts. He was a respected member of society, and even acted as a confidant to the Chinese emperor. He is said to have worked as a librarian and archivist in the imperial court.

Lao-Tzu gained a reputation as a wise and generous teacher, and many of his followers sought out his advice, which he was happy to provide. He emerged as a philosophical and spiritual teacher, giving advice on how to live a good and meaningful life. He was an avid advocate of the natural order of things, and he wrote extensively on the relationship between the human life, the natural environment and the spiritual aspects of existence.

Due to its immense popularity, the Tao Te Ching (also known as the ‘Book of the Way’) has been translated into countless languages. It is considered to be one of the most influential texts in Chinese history, and its teachings have had a profound impact on Chinese culture. At its essence, the book is an exploration of the relationship between the individual, nature and the universe. The Tao Te Ching is divided into 81 chapters, each offering different insights into human life, nature and the universe.

Apart from Tao Te Ching, Lao-Tzu is also believed to have authored some other classic works. These include the Book of Changes (I Ching), the Book of Rites and the Book of Songs. Despite the highly abstract nature of his works, Lao-Tzu’s teachings have proved to be very influential within the Chinese culture, as well as in other parts of the world. In modern times, many of his ideas have been adapted and interpreted in ways that provide guidance and ethical teachings to people living in the present.

The name Lao Tzu itself has become synonymous with Taoism. His approach to teaching emphasizes the importance of the individual and the need to conform to the laws of nature. His emphasis on living in balance and harmony is still clearly present in modern society, and it is an important aspect of Chinese culture. Lao-Tzu has become a great source of inspiration and motivation for many, and his teachings continue to provide guidance and direction to countless people around the world.