Mystery of the Tao Te Ching

Author:: Gary R. Smith

aesthetic-living-tao-te-ching-and-symbolic-art

The Tao that can be spoken is not the eternal Tao

The name that can be named is not the eternal name

The nameless is the origin of Heaven and Earth

The named is the mother of myriad things...

The origins of the ancient Chinese text popularly called the Tao Te Ching or the Way are a mystery like the Tao itself.

Its teachings are often ascribed to the sage Laozi or Lao Tzu (a title meaning 'Old Master'.) There are many variations in the telling of the story.

The teachings were not formalized into a school or writings at the time of Lao Tzu, set in the 6th century B.C. by some. Their guidance encourages a simple and natural way of life; developing keen observation; understanding the ways of nature; fostering intuition and authenticity; and leading life with love, and without force.

The essence of the message needs only to be heard with the heart to verify its potency and value.

For those drawn to more of this wisdom, numerous online resources which include various translations of the full text of the Tao Te Ching, giving a more rounded perspective, and helpful commentary are available. Some are offered as links below.

When asked, the writer suggests not to read about the Tao Te Ching for intellectual understanding, but to approach the text with an open mind and heart, trust intuition to guide, and absorb the essence of the wisdom sayings. The energy behind the words will do the work of expansion and illumination where it is invited and allowed.

The words of the Sage are mated in the artwork below with timeless contemplative designs rich in symbolism. And so the journey begins, with the first step.