The Way of Tao is this: It strives not, but conquers; It speaks not, but all is made clear; It summons not, but its house is crowded; It contrives not, but the design is perfect.

A great country needs more people to serve it. A small country needs more people to serve. So, if both shall get what they need, the great country ought to yield.

To rule by knowledge ravages the country.

Care about what other people think and you will always be their prisoner.

Try to change it and you will ruin it. Try to hold it and you will lose it.

By not claiming to be first in the world one can rule.

As soon as rules were made, names were given. There are already many names. One must know when it is enough.