Lao Tzu (571 BC – 471 BC), surnamed Li Mingdan, also known as Li Dan, was an ancient Chinese philosopher, thinker and cultural celebrity. He was one of the founders of the Taoist school and was revered as the "Ancestor of Taoism".
There is no detailed historical record of Lao Tzu's life and deeds, so there are many legends and myths about his life. According to legend, Lao Tzu was born in Huaiyang County, Zhoukou City, Henan Province (formerly known as Chenliu), and his father was the Zhou Dynasty's ** who was responsible for guarding Deshui. As a young man, Lao Tzu served as the librarian of the Zhou Dynasty, but later became disillusioned with the corruption of the imperial court and the chaos of society, and decided to leave the world and travel far and wide.
It is said that during his travels, Lao Tzu came to the present-day northwest region and entered a place called Huashan. On Mount Hua, he had an important conversation with another famous thinker, Zhuangzi, which is regarded as one of the important foundations of Taoist thought. According to legend, Lao Tzu wrote the Tao Te Ching on Mount Hua, which became a classic work of the Taoist school.
The Tao Te Ching is Lao Tzu's most important work and is considered one of the important documents of ancient Chinese philosophy. This book expounds Lao Tzu's philosophical views in concise language and profound thoughts, mainly focusing on "Tao" and "Virtue". Lao Tzu believes that "Tao" is the origin and law of the universe, and is the root and principle of all things. He advocated that people should pursue unity with the Tao, abandon utilitarianism and desire, and pursue a lifestyle of natural harmony.
Lao Tzu's ideas have had a profound impact on ancient Chinese philosophy and culture. He has made important contributions to Chinese politics, ethics, religion and art. His ideas also had an important influence on later schools such as Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, and became an important part of traditional Chinese culture.
It is important to note that there are many legends and myths about Lao Tzu's life and deeds, so we have limited knowledge of his true life. His ideas and writings are still of great value and significance for the study of ancient Chinese philosophy and culture.