This is the first of eight films that examines the history and philosophy of Taoism on the culture and thought of China, including its impact on Buddhism.
In the introductory film in this series we first learn of the political background of ancient China, and the role this played in the emergence of new philosophical thought.
We hear of the traditions concerning the childhood and years of civil service of the man known to later years as Lao Tze (Venerable Master), who wrote the first and most seminal book on the system: the Tao Te Ching.
We also learn about his patron and friend Yinxi, who was himself a legendary figure living on the edge of the collapsing Zhou Dynasty. According to legend it was Yinxi who asked Lao Tze to record his thoughts for the benefit of others.
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