SEVEN MOUNTAINS TAI CHI Wu-Tang Arts of Centre County

THE WUDANG WIKI

Laozi, the Founder of Daoism

The story of Laozi, the founder of Daoism and author of the Daodejing, is a tapestry woven from history, legend, religious reverence, and philosophical inquiry. His identity is multifaceted, encompassing historical speculation, mythological narratives, and divine worship in Daoist religion.

Historical Laozi

Laozi (老子), meaning "Old Master," is traditionally thought to have lived during the 6th century BCE, contemporary with Confucius. Historical accounts place him in the Zhou Dynasty, serving as a court archivist or librarian in the royal court of Luoyang. His role gave him access to ancient wisdom and knowledge, which he synthesized into a profound philosophical worldview.

The most notable historical reference to Laozi comes from Sima Qian, the Han Dynasty historian, in his Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji). Sima describes Laozi as a sage born as Li Er (李耳), hailing from the state of Chu. Disillusioned with the corruption and decline of the Zhou Dynasty, Laozi is said to have left his position to live a life of seclusion. As he departed westward, a gatekeeper named Yinxi (尹喜) implored him to record his wisdom, resulting in the Daodejing. Afterward, Laozi disappeared from historical record, leaving his life shrouded in mystery.

However, skepticism abounds regarding Laozi's historicity. Some scholars argue that the Daodejing is a compilation of texts written by multiple authors over centuries, reflecting diverse philosophical and cultural influences. This theory suggests that "Laozi" may not have been a single person but rather a symbolic representation of early Daoist philosophy.

Laozi as a God

In religious Daoism, Laozi transcends his historical role to become a divine figure known as Taishang Laojun (太上老君), or "The Supreme Lord Lao." He is regarded as an incarnation of the Dao itself, a celestial being who descended to guide humanity. This deification began during the Han Dynasty, as Daoism evolved into an organized religion.

Laozi's divine persona includes miraculous tales of his birth and supernatural abilities. Legends say he was conceived after his mother gazed upon a falling star, carrying him for 81 years before giving birth to him as an old man—a sign of his inherent wisdom. As Taishang Laojun, he is believed to dwell in the heavens, offering teachings and divine assistance to those who seek harmony with the Dao.

Daoist scriptures often portray Laozi as a cosmic teacher who appeared to key historical figures to impart wisdom. In The Huahujing (a controversial text), Laozi is said to have traveled to the West, where he taught principles that influenced Buddhism, blending the two spiritual traditions. While this claim lacks historical support, it reflects the syncretic nature of Chinese religious thought.

Laozi and Historical Figures

Laozi's interactions with Confucius are among the most famous anecdotes in Chinese culture. According to tradition, Confucius sought Laozi’s counsel on ritual and propriety. Laozi reportedly rebuked Confucius, urging him to focus on natural simplicity rather than rigid societal norms. This meeting symbolizes the philosophical divergence between Confucianism’s focus on social order and Daoism’s emphasis on natural harmony.

In later Daoist lore, Laozi appears as a spiritual guide to other significant figures, including martial artists and sages. For example, he is said to have inspired the creation of Taijiquan (Tai Chi) by transmitting principles of balance and harmony to Zhang Sanfeng, a legendary Daoist monk and martial artist. These stories reinforce Laozi’s enduring influence on Daoist practices, including martial arts, alchemy, and meditation.

Daoist Lineage and Legacy

The lineage of Laozi is preserved within Daoist tradition, particularly in the Dragon Gate (Longmen) sect of Quanzhen Daoism. Temples such as the Purple Heaven Palace (Zixiao Gong) on Wudang Mountain maintain genealogical records tracing spiritual descent from Laozi. These records, though partially symbolic, establish Laozi as the foundational patriarch of Daoist religious practice.

Legends and Myths

Laozi’s mythos includes a wealth of stories that highlight his wisdom and supernatural abilities:

• The Gatekeeper and the Daodejing: Laozi’s meeting with Yinxi is a central narrative, emphasizing his decision to share his wisdom before retreating from society.
• The Journey to the West: Legends describe Laozi traveling to distant lands, spreading the Dao’s teachings and influencing spiritual traditions beyond China.
• Appearance to Martial Artists: As a divine figure, Laozi is said to have imparted martial techniques and principles of internal cultivation to Daoist practitioners, reinforcing the spiritual dimension of martial arts.
• Transformative Encounters: Stories abound of Laozi appearing in dreams or visions to guide individuals toward enlightenment or resolve crises.

Interpretations Across History

The perception of Laozi has evolved over centuries:

• Early Daoism: He was revered as a sage and philosopher whose teachings provided a counterpoint to the rigid structures of Confucianism and the militarism of Legalism.
• Religious Daoism: Laozi’s role expanded as Daoism became a formal religion, incorporating rituals, cosmology, and a pantheon of deities centered on the Dao.
• Neo-Daoism: During the Wei and Jin Dynasties, scholars and poets reinterpreted Laozi’s teachings to explore metaphysical questions and personal freedom.
• Modern Scholarship: Western interpretations often frame Laozi as a mystical philosopher, focusing on the Daodejing as a work of spiritual and ethical insight. This perspective, while insightful, sometimes omits the religious and cultural dimensions central to Daoist tradition.

Conclusion

Laozi remains an enigmatic and multifaceted figure whose legacy spans history, religion, and myth. As a historical figure, he represents the origins of Daoist thought; as a divine being, he embodies the Dao’s eternal presence. His teachings, encapsulated in the Daodejing, continue to inspire spiritual seekers, scholars, and practitioners of martial arts. Whether viewed as a historical sage, a collective voice, or a celestial guide, Laozi’s influence endures as a cornerstone of Chinese culture and Daoist spirituality.