Tao Te Ching

High school (ages 12+)
History & Culture

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/tao-te-ching

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. Who wrote Tao Te Ching?Lao Tzu
2. What is the estimated composition period?Between the 4th and 6th centuries BCE
3. What is the primary philosophical concept?The Tao (道), the fundamental, ineffable principle of the universe
4. What does the word "Tao" mean?Tao means "The Way." It is the invisible, formless principle that guides everything in the universe.
5. What is "Wu Wei" and how can we practice it?Wu Wei means effortless action. It means acting gently and naturally, like water shaping rock, without force or fighting.

Tao (道): The ultimate, ineffable, and natural principle governing the universe; the Way.
Wu Wei (無為): Effortless action, non-striving, acting in harmony with the natural flow of existence.
De (德): Virtue, inner power, or integrity derived from aligning with the Tao.
Pu (樸): The 'uncarved block,' representing natural simplicity, potential, and an unadulterated state.