Lao Tzu Biography and Quotes
Lao Tzu, also known as Laozi, was a philosopher in ancient China, who lived in the 6th century BC. However, there are historians who say that he is a mythical figure, or a synthesis of multiple historical figures. The stories say that he never created a formal school. However, he attracted a large number of students and loyal disciples.
According to the legend, Lao Tzu was the keeper of the archives at the imperial court, which gave him the opportunity to study the archive books and gain a great deal of knowledge. During his life, Lao Tzu got known for his wisdom, and it is said that even the famous Chinese philosopher, Confucius, heard about Lao Tzu, and came to visit him. However, recent scholars place him about two centuries later.
Lao Tzu believed that the human life, like everything else in the universe, is influenced by outside forces. He believed "simplicity" to be the key to truth and freedom, encouraging people to observe, and seek to understand the laws of nature. He also preached for building up personal power, and using it for leading life with love, without force.
When Lao Tzu was about eighty years old, he set out for the western border of China, towards Tibet, saddened that people were unwilling to follow the path to natural goodness. At the border, a guard, asked Lao Tzu to record his teachings before he left. He then composed in 5,000 characters the Tao Te Ching (The Way and Its Power).
It is said that Lao Tzu is the founder of the Chinese spiritual tradition, Taoism, mainly because of his text called Tao Te Ching (Tao: the way of all life, Te: the fit use of life by men, Ching: text or classic).
A large number of people trace their lineage back to Lao Tzu, as did the emperors of the Tang Dynasty. Though many of these claims might not be true, they provide a testament to the impact of Lao Tzu on the Chinese culture.
Lao Tzu Quotes and Spiritual Staying
At the center of your being you have the
answer; you know who you are and you know
what you want. ~ Lao Tzu Quotes
If you look to others for fulfillment, you will
never be truly fulfilled.~ Lao Tzu Quotes
Nothing is softer or more flexible than water,
yet nothing can resist it.~ Lao Tzu Quotes
When you accept yourself, the whole world
accepts you.~ Lao Tzu Quotes
Care about what other people think and you
will always be their prisoner.~ Lao Tzu Quotes
Great acts are made up of small deeds. ~ Lao Tzu Quotes
If you do not change direction, you may end
up where you are heading.~ Lao Tzu Quotes
We hammer wood for a house, but it is the
inner space that makes it livable.~ Lao Tzu Quotes
Remind yourself daily, there is no way to
happiness. Happiness is the way.~ Lao Tzu Quotes
An ant on the move does more than a dozing
ox.~ Lao Tzu Quotes
Mastering others is strength. Mastering
yourself is true power.~ Lao Tzu Quotes
Nature does not hurry, yet everything is
accomplished.~ Lao Tzu Quotes
Music in the soul can be heard by the
universe.~ Lao Tzu Quotes
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