Laozi: The Keeper of the Archives of Zhou and the Founder of Taoism in "Records of the Grand Historian"

Brief Introduction

Laozi is a legendary figure in the history of Chinese philosophy and the founder of the Taoist school. Regarding his life, the Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji), written by Sima Qian of the Western Han Dynasty, is the earliest and most authoritative historical source. The title "Keeper of the Archives of Zhou" is not merely a professional label for Laozi but also a key to understanding the origins of his thought. This position allowed him access to the core archives of the Zhou Dynasty, enabling him to gain insight into the laws of historical rise and fall, thereby forming his unique cosmology.

Core Knowledge Points

1. Identity and Name: Laozi's surname was Li, his given name was Er, and his courtesy name was Dan, hence he is also known as Li Er in later generations. He was a native of the State of Chu during the late Spring and Autumn period, though his exact birth and death years are unknown.
2. Job Meaning: "Keeper of the Archives of Zhou" was equivalent to the Director of the National Library and Archivist of the Zhou Dynasty. His duties included managing classics, archives, astronomy, calendars, and divination records, making him a representative of the intellectual elite of the time.
3. Source of Thought: This position allowed Laozi to read extensively and gain insight into the changes of the world. This profound understanding of historical cycles and natural laws directly contributed to the birth of the thought "Tao follows Nature" in the Tao Te Ching.
4. Historical Mist: There are multiple theories regarding Laozi as a historical figure. Sima Qian did not dare to make a complete conclusion, which adds to his mysterious aura.

Connection with "Records of the Grand Historian"

In the Records of the Grand Historian, specifically the "Biographies of Laozi and Han Fei," Sima Qian recorded Laozi's deeds in detail, constructing the basic understanding of Laozi for later generations.

1. Confucius Asking about Rituals: The Shiji records that Confucius once asked Laozi about rituals. Laozi advised Confucius to "remove your arrogance and excessive desires, your demeanor and wild ambitions." This dialogue showcases the early collision between Taoist and Confucian thoughts, influencing the cultural landscape of complementary Confucianism and Taoism in later generations.
2. Exiting Hangu Pass: Seeing the decline of the Zhou court, Laozi rode an ox westward. Upon reaching the pass, the Pass Commander Yin Xi persuaded him to write a book. Thus, he wrote the Tao Te Ching, five thousand characters expounding on the meaning of Tao and virtue, and then disappeared. This episode became the source of the later allusion "Laozi Exiting the Pass," symbolizing the spread of wisdom.
3. Rigorous Doubt: Sima Qian also expressed confusion in the text, pointing out that there might be multiple theories regarding Laozi's identity (such as Lao Laizi), and even mentioned that "Laozi was a hidden gentleman." This attitude of doubt reflects a rigorous historical spirit and reminds readers to distinguish between the historical figure and the philosophical symbol.

Conclusion

Laozi was not only a philosopher but also a guardian of knowledge for the Zhou Dynasty. Through the Records of the Grand Historian, we can glimpse how this wise man transformed the wisdom from the archives into eternal Taoist philosophy amidst the torrent of history. His image is intertwined between history and legend, becoming an indispensable spiritual symbol in traditional Chinese culture.