The Influence of the Tao Te Ching The Tao Te Ching can be read as a religion text or philosophical text. Religious, the Tao Te Ching is the fundamental text for the religion of Taoism. It was written by Lao Tzu who was an ancient Chinese philosopher and author. The Tao Te Ching has influenced much of Chinese history, culture, philosophy, and art. It has also influenced other religion such as; Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism,and Christianity. The Tao Te Ching has a very extensive and complex textual history. There have been versions found printed on ancient bamboo, silk, and paper manuscripts. (Koi Fresco) The oldest text found dates back to the 4th century BC and it's among the most translated works in world literature next to works like the Bible. Many other Chinese artists, poets, painters,and landscapers have used the Tao Te Ching as a source of inspiration for their art. …show more content…
Little is known about the author of the Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu. It is understood that he was an acquaintance and a follower of the philosopher Confucius. Confucius and Lao Tzu both lived in times of turmoil and were founders of religions.
Confucius founded Confucianism on the basis that the only way to have true order is by respecting relationships. Lao Tzu, who founded Taoism, understood chaos and order differently. Confucianism and Taoism are considered the two sizes to the Chinese philosophical coin. (Novak) Lao Tzu believed that avoiding confrontation and going with the flow is the key to the perfect society. For example, this exert from the text. "Life is a series of natural changes. Do not resist. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like. When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be." (Lao Tzu