The Dao De Jing is a poetic book attributed to Laozi from 2,500 years ago. It provides the basis for the ancient Chinese philosophy of Daoism and outlines how one can live in accordance with the Way and have a much more satisfying life. It is approximately 5,000 words, has 81 chapters, and is divided into two parts: the Way and virtue.
Laozi
Laozi was a public official for the emperor who had tired of politics and decided to leave China. Before he left a border guard asked him to write down his teachings. Laozi translates to “old master” and some doubt he ever existed. The book may be a collection of verses from many authors (Tao Te Ching, pages 14-16).
The Way
It starts off describing the eternal Dao, which translates to “the Way” and says it is so mysterious and incomprehensible that it can’t be put into words.
“The Dao that can be described is not the eternal Dao. The name that can be spoken is not the eternal Name.”
Dao De Jing, Chapter 1
It uses analogies from nature including water and valleys.
“Supreme good is like water. Water greatly benefits all things, without The supreme good is like water, which benefits all of creation without trying to compete with it. It gathers in unpopular places. Thus it is like the Dao.”
Dao De Jing, Chapter 8
Chapters
Resource:
Tao Te Ching, Laozi, A Translation for the Public Domain by J.H. Mcdonald, 1996.