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One of the four central works in Daoism. The Lie-Tzu, or Liezi, was originally thought to have been composed in the same period as the Dao and Zhuang Zi, around the 5th century BCE. However, it is now believed to have been compiled nearly a thousand years later, around 400 CE.

The Book of Lieh-Tzu offers a captivating insight into ancient wisdom, showcasing a text that, despite its various edits and enhancements over the years, likely retains the essence of Lieh Tzu’s original disciples. This could make it even older than the authentic parts of Chuang Tzu. While both authors explore similar themes, Lieh Tzus work shines with its distinctive charm. Its warm and inviting tone provides a gentle contrast to Chuang Tzu’s sharper intellect, embodying a profound sympathy for the elderly, the marginalized, and the animal kingdom. Throughout its pages, the Book resonates...

The history of Taoist philosophy may be conveniently divided into three stages: the primitive stage, the stage of development, and the stage of degeneration. The first of these stages is only known to us through the medium of a single semi-historical figure, the philosopher Lao Tzu, whose birth is traditionally assigned to the year 604 BC.