Lao Tzu Quotes
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There are three layers to the universe. In the lower, Tai Ching, and the middle, Shan Ching, the hindrance of a physical bodily existence is required. Those who fail to live consistently in accord with the Tao reside here. In the upper, Yu Ching, there is only Tao: the bondage of form is broken, and the only thing existing is the exquisite energy dance of the immortal divine beings.
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He who is great must make humility his base. He who is high must make lowliness his foundation. Thus, princes and kings in speaking of themselves use the terms "lonely," "friendless," "of small account." Is not this making humility their base?
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A climb of eight hundred feet starts where the foot stands.
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The (method of) correction shall by a turn become distortion, and the good in it shall by a turn become evil.
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Use justice to rule a country. Use surprise to wage war. Use non-action to govern the world.
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Find a teacher who is an integral being, a beacon who extends his light and virtue with equal ease to those who appreciate him and those who don't. Shape yourself in his mold, bathe in his nourishing radiance, and reflect it out to the rest of the world.
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If you want to know me, look inside your heart.
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I have three treasures which I hold and keep. The first is mercy; the second is economy. The third is daring not to be ahead of others. From mercy comes courage; from economy comes generosity; From humility comes leadership.
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The Way is the source of all things, good people's treasure and bad people's refuge.
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Those who advice the ruler on the Way, do not want the world subdued with weapons.
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Hold on to the great image, and the whole world follows, follows unharmed, content and completely at peace.
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Filling all the way to the brim is not as good as halting in time.
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My own words are not the medicine, but a prescription; not the destination, but a map to help you reach it. When you get there, quiet your mind and close your mouth. Don't analyze the Tao. Strive instead to live it: silently, undividedly, with your whole harmonious being.
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Confidence is the greatest friend.
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Correct becomes defect. Good becomes ominous. People's delusions have certainly lasted long.
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When much virtue is achieved, nothing is not overcome.
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Praise and disgrace cause fear.
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I have the mind of a fool, understanding nothing.
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The sage wears coarse clothes, concealing jade.
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Therefore the Sage embraces Unity, and is a model for all under Heaven. He is free from self-display, therefore he shines forth; from self-assertion, therefore he is distinguished; from self-glorification, therefore he has merit; from self-exaltation, therefore he rises superior to all. Inasmuch as he does not strive, there is no one in the world who can strive with him.
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Excellent leaders of people lower themselves.
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Let muddy water stand and it will become clear.
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Learn to lead in a nourishing manner. Learn to lead without being possessive. Learn to be helpful without taking the credit. Learn to lead without coercion.
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When wisdom and knowledge appear, great pretense arises.