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The Tao Teh King, or the Tao and its Characteristics

Written by Laozi

"The Tao Teh King, or the Tao and its Characteristics" by Laozi is an ancient Chinese text from the late Warring States period (475–221 BCE). This foundational work of Taoism explores the Way and its Virtue through poetic wisdom. Traditionally attributed to the sage Laozi, though authorship remains debated, it has profoundly influenced Chinese philosophy and religious practice. As one of the most translated texts worldwide, it precedes the other core Taoist work, the Zhuangzi, and continues to resonate across cultures.

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Level C1

Language difficulty is an AI estimate based on sampled text.

Reader and content guidance is an AI estimate based on the title, author, source summary, contents and selected excerpts. Unseen portions have not been assessed.

Recommended age: 14+ (AI estimate)
No adult content in samples, but abstract paradox, governance themes and archaic translation require maturity for independent enjoyment; younger readers could use supported excerpts. Based on named-book metadata and selected excerpts; unseen text was not assessed. This is guidance, not an official age rating; individual reading ability varies.

Source: Project Gutenberg · Public domain in the USA.

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