Abstract: The statement that “Tao models itself after nature” was an important thought in Lao Zi, and also a major ideological theme in Buddhist and Taoist disputes during the early Tang Dynasty. In response to Buddhist criticisms Taoism drew up some Buddhist thinking modes and made use of relevant Buddhist important concepts, thus elevating its own interpretations of the statement to a higher level of “stressing Mysterious Metaphysical Learning” and enhancing its theoretical speculation. Meanwhile, Buddhism deepened its explanations of the statement, trying to merge its own ideas with Taoist ideas.

Key words: Tao , nature , Buddhist and Taoist controversy