Daode Tianzun, also known as "Taishang Laojun," is the third of the "Three Pure Ones," the highest deities in Taoism. He resides in the Taiqing Immortal Realm of Yuyu Heaven and is fully known as "Taiqing Daode Tianzun."
He symbolizes the process of "Dao" transforming from formless to tangible, representing education, order, and the principles governing the operation of all things. In Taoist belief, Daode Tianzun is both a primordial deity and the deified incarnation of Laozi (Li Er), a philosopher from the Spring and Autumn period. Legend has it that when Laozi departed west through Hangu Pass, at the request of the pass guardian Yin Xi, he left behind the timeless classic "Dao De Jing," which became the most important fundamental text of Taoism.
In terms of appearance, Daode Tianzun is often depicted as an elderly man with white hair, kind eyes, and a benevolent expression. He wears an Eight Trigrams robe and holds a feather fan or a ruyi scepter, or rides a green ox, symbolizing his wisdom of purity, non-action, and conformity to nature.
• Ancestor of Ten Thousand Teachings: Responsible for establishing teachings in the world, revealing cultivation methods and human morality.
• Patriarch of Alchemy: Both internal and external alchemy in Taoism revere Taishang Laojun as their patriarch.
Focus: Teaching sentient beings; people pray to him for healing, strengthening the body, and obtaining happiness and longevity.
