Tao Te Ching, attributed to the ancient Chinese sage Lao Tzu, is a foundational text of Taoist philosophy and one of the most translated works in world literature. Composed of 81 brief, poetic chapters, the book offers timeless wisdom on living in harmony with the Tao—the natural way or path of the universe. This Penguin Classics edition, translated by renowned sinologist D. C. Lau, presents a clear and faithful rendering of the original Chinese text, accompanied by scholarly notes and historical context. Balancing philosophical depth with lyrical clarity, the Tao Te Ching explores themes such as humility, non-action (wu wei), simplicity, and the power of yielding. It continues to inspire readers seeking insight into the art of wise living and the pursuit of inner peace.