When the Way is lost there is virtue. When virtue is lost there is benevolence. When benevolence is lost there is righteousness. When righteousness is lost there are rituals.

I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures.

Because of a great love, one is courageous.

For knowledge, add something every day. For wisdom....subtract.

The Tao's principle is spontaneity.

The sage never strives for the great, and thereby the great is achieved.

Excellent conquerors do not engage.