Lao Tzu's Guide

"Laozi's Guide" written by Wang Bi is a highly condensed philosophical outline and ideological interpretation of the "Tao Te Ching". This book is different from the general chapter-by-chapter exegesis style. Instead, it starts from the overall ideological system and systematically summarizes and explains core concepts such as "Tao", "Nothing", "Constant", "Natural", "Inaction", "Name", "Shape", "Xiang", "Xuan", "Micro" and "Yuan". Wang Bi revealed in the way of metaphysical speculation: "The invisible and nameless is the origin of all things." He believed that although "Tao" is indescribable, it is the original law of the universe, all phenomena, and the endless life and transformation. The book puts forward the ideas of "respecting the original and resting on the end", "protecting the mother and preserving the son", "valuing inaction and guarding against ingenuity", advocating returning to the original and true, using simplicity to avoid complexity, not being disturbed by external things, and pursuing a spiritual state of unity with the laws of nature. Through this book, Wang Bi developed Laozi's philosophy of "taking nothingness as the foundation" into a metaphysical outlook on the universe and life. "Laozi Zhilue" has concise language and profound meaning, revealing the inner logic between "nothing", "existence", "name" and "Tao". It is an important book for understanding the essence of the thoughts of "Tao Te Ching" and the spirit of metaphysics of Wei and Jin Dynasties. By reading it, you can get a glimpse of the purpose of "mysterious and mysterious" and understand the authenticity and lofty ideals of Taoist philosophy.