How can one liberate the many? By first liberating his own being. He does this not by elevating himself, but by lowering himself. He lowers himself to that which is simple, modest, true; integrating it into himself, he becomes a master of simplicity, modesty, truth.

The great Way is all-pervading. It reaches to the left and to the right. All things depend on it with their existence. Still it demands no obedience.

All things in nature work silently. They come into being and possess nothing. They fulfill their function and make no claim. All things alike do their work, and then we see them subside. When they have reached their bloom, each returns to its origin. . . . This reversion is an eternal law. To know that law is wisdom.

He who conquers others is strong; He who conquers himself is mighty.

Do not make them (people) weary at their work. If you do not make them weary, they will not be weary of you.

The world is a sacred vessel that cannot be changed. He who changes it will destroy it. He who seizes it will lose it.

Yet mystery and reality emerge from the same source.