Classics of the Twelve Books

Classics of the Twelve Books refers to a traditional Chinese collection of twelve essential texts that form the foundation of Chinese thought, philosophy, history, and literature. These works include important texts such as the Confucian Analects, the Taoist Tao Te Ching, and historical records like the Records of the Grand Historian. They serve as fundamental sources for understanding Chinese culture, ethics, governance, and ideas across centuries. Studying these classics offers insight into ancient Chinese worldview, values, and intellectual development, and they continue to influence East Asian culture and scholarship today.