Dāo de Jīng Persian 1998

Dao De Jing is an ancient work of Daoist (Taoist) philosophy that addresses principles of governance, ethics, and the cultivation of a wise way of life. The title consists of three components: Dao, meaning the Way or the fundamental flow of existence; De, referring to virtue or the power that arises from alignment with the Dao; and Jing, meaning a classic or authoritative text.

As a universal principle, the Dao permeates all things—from nature and human movement to the stars and the cosmos. On this basis, Dao De Jing may be understood as “The Way and Its Virtue.” The work is attributed to Laozi, the great sage of ancient China and a contemporary of Confucius. It presents a body of philosophical and mystical teachings concerning the nature of the universe, humanity, the natural world, inner tranquility, compassion toward others, and the proper art of governance.

The book also offers a portrayal of the wise or enlightened person—one who has attained profound understanding of the world and unity with it, and who acts accordingly with balance and ethical awareness. Dao De Jing is composed of 81 short sections, each conveying moral and spiritual insights through concise, poetic expressions and subtle counsel.