Lao Tzu

Lao Tzu (also Laozi, fl. 6th–5th century BC) is the legendary founder of Taoism and the attributed author of the Tao Te Ching, one of the most translated works in world literature. Tradition holds he was a record-keeper at the Zhou dynasty court who departed civilization in old age, composing the Tao Te Ching at the western gate before vanishing. His philosophy of the Tao — the Way — emphasizes harmony, simplicity, and the natural order of all things.