Superior leaders get things done with very little motion. They impart instruction not through many words, but through a few deeds. They keep informed about everything but interfere hardly at all. They are catalysts, and though things would not get done as well if they were not there, when they succeed they take no credit. And, because they take no credit, credit never leaves them.

He does not feel pity for himself - thus he can successfully develop.

The usefulness of the pot lies in its emptiness.

The progress of the Way seems retreating.

When the worst student hears about the Way, he laughs out loud. If he did not laugh, it would be unworthy of being the Way.

The supreme rulers are hardly known by their subjects. The lesser are loved and praised. The even lesser are feared. The least are despised.

Covetousness is the greatest misfortune. One who does not know what is enough will never have enough.