Composed over 2,500 years ago, the Tao Te Ching (also spelled Dao De Jing) is a foundational text of Taoist philosophy. In 81 brief chapters, it explores the nature of Tao (the Way) and Te (Virtue), encouraging harmony with nature, effortless action (wu wei), humility, and inner peace. Its poetic and paradoxical verses have guided spiritual seekers, rulers, and philosophers across centuries and cultures.