Laozi, named Li Er with the courtesy name Boyang, was a native of the State of Chen.
He was born during the Shang Dynasty and served as an Archivist under the Zhou Dynasty (specifically as a Zhuxia Shi, or Record-Keeper beneath the pillars). He cherished the cultivation of vital energy, valued receiving wisdom but rarely bestowed it openly. Later, he was transferred to serve as the Keeper of the Archives.
He served for over eighty years; the Records of the Grand Historian – Shiji claims it was over two hundred years. In his time, he was known as a “Hidden Gentleman,” and his posthumous name was Dan.
When Confucius (Zhongni) traveled to Zhou, he met Laozi, recognized him as a sage, and took him as his teacher.
Later, as the virtue of the Zhou Dynasty declined, Laozi departed riding a green ox cart, heading toward the Great Qin (a term often used historically for regions far to the west). As he passed through the Hangu Pass, the Gatekeeper Yin Xi, observing the vital energies (Qi), foresaw his arrival. Yin Xi sought him out and awaited him.
Soon after, Laozi indeed arrived. Yin Xi earnestly requested him to write a book. Consequently, Laozi composed over five thousand words, creating the “Dao De Jing” (Classic of the Tao and Virtue), which became the founding text of the Daoist school. Because of his advanced age, the book was titled “Laozi” (The Old Master).
Note
This passage serves as a biographical sketch blending historical record with mythological elements, establishing Laozi as the primordial figure of Daoism.
Laozi (Li Er)
The central figure. While historically likely a philosopher of the 6th century BCE, this text incorporates legendary elements, such as his birth in the Shang Dynasty and living for over 200 years. This longevity symbolizes his mastery over life forces and his transcendence of normal human limitations. He represents the ideal of the “Hidden Sage” who only reveals wisdom when the times are ripe.
Confucius
The founder of Confucianism. The mention of Confucius studying under Laozi is a significant trope in Chinese thought, suggesting that even the great teacher of social order acknowledged the superior, transcendent wisdom of the Daoist sage. It establishes a hierarchy where Daoist naturalism underpins Confucian ethics.
Yin Xi
The Gatekeeper of Hangu Pass. He is a crucial figure in Daoist mythology, revered as the first disciple who compelled Laozi to write down his teachings. Without Yin Xi’s insistence, the Dao De Jing might never have existed. He represents the discerning eye that can recognize spiritual greatness (“observing the Qi”).
Cultivation of Vital Energy
The text mentions Laozi’s focus on “nourishing essence and energy.” This refers to early Daoist practices of internal alchemy and breath control aimed at longevity and spiritual immortality. It highlights the Daoist pursuit of harmony with the natural life force rather than political ambition.
The Green Ox Cart
Laozi’s departure on a green (or blue) ox is one of the most iconic images in Chinese art and literature. Unlike a horse (symbolizing war and speed), the ox symbolizes slowness, steadiness, and connection to the earth. The color green/blue represents nature and the East (spring/rebirth). This image signifies his withdrawal from the corrupt human world into the realm of nature and mystery.
“Observing the Qi”
Yin Xi’s ability to foresee Laozi’s arrival by looking at the atmosphere/energy reflects the ancient Chinese belief in cosmological resonance. Great sages were believed to emit a unique spiritual aura that sensitive individuals could detect.
The Name “Laozi”
The text explains the title as simply meaning “The Old Master” due to his age. However, in Daoist philosophy, “Old” also connotes primacy, eternity, and a return to the state of the uncarved block (infancy/origin).
The Composition of the Dao De Jing
The story that the book was written only because a gatekeeper “forced” him to do so is essential. It implies that the Dao cannot be easily spoken or taught; it was only recorded as a final act of compassion before disappearing. This reinforces the Daoist idea that “The Dao that can be told is not the eternal Dao.”
老子李耳，字伯阳，陈人也。生於殷时，为周柱下史，好养精气，贵接而不施。转为守藏史。积八十余年，《史记》云二百余年。时称为隐君子，谥曰聃。仲尼至周，见老子，知其圣人，乃师之。后周德衰，乃乘青牛车去，入大秦。过西关，关令尹喜望气先知焉，乃物色遮候之。已而老子果至，乃强使著书，作《道德经》五千余言，为道家之宗。以其年老，故号其书为《老子》。
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