Laozi – an ancient Chinese philosopher of the 6th–5th century BCE, traditionally credited with writing the «Tao Te Ching», the cornerstone of Taoism. Little is known about his life, leaving him suspended between history and myth. He is often pictured as an old sage riding an ox into the mountains, seeking harmony with the Tao.
✨ Said to have worked as a keeper of archives at the Zhou court. 📖 His name means “Old Master.” 🌄 Before departing into exile, he left behind 81 chapters of the «Tao Te Ching». 💡 Central idea: the Tao, a natural way of being that needs no force. 🌍 His thought shaped Chinese philosophy, poetry, and martial arts. 📚 Often seen as a counterpoint to Confucius. 🖊️ The «Tao Te Ching» has been translated into more than a hundred languages. 🎨 In art, he is depicted riding an ox – symbol of calm strength. ☯ Inspired the practice of wu wei – effortless action. 🍵 Legends say he cherished tea as a symbol of harmony with nature. 😄 People joked that even his silence carried more wisdom than most speeches.