Spiritual Tradition

Taoist

Effortless action and harmony with the Tao that cannot be named

History

Originating with Lao Tzu (c. 6th century BCE) and developed by Chuang Tzu, Taoism teaches that the Tao — the underlying reality of all things — cannot be named or grasped. The path lies in wu wei (effortless action), simplicity, and aligning with natural flow rather than forcing.

Tao (the Way)

Wu Wei (non-action)

Yin & Yang

Te (virtue)

P'u (uncarved block)

Sages & Mystics of this Tradition

Lao Tzu

604 BCE — 531 BCE

Lao Tzu is traditionally credited as the author of the Tao Te Ching and as the founder of Taoism. His existence is debated by scholars, with some viewing him as a legendary figure. If historical, he i

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Voices from this Tradition

The Tao is the ultimate truth.

— Lao Tzu

The Tao is the path to enlightenment.

— Lao Tzu

Silence is a source of great strength.

— Lao Tzu

He who knows does not speak. He who speaks does not know.

— Lao Tzu

The Tao is empty, yet use will not drain it.

— Lao Tzu

The Tao is the mother of ten thousand things.

— Lao Tzu