It is as though he listened and such listening as his enfolds us in silence in which at last we begin to hear what we are meant to be.

In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it.

In dwelling, be close to the land. In meditation, go deep in the heart. In dealing with others, be gentle and kind. In speech, be true. In ruling, be just. In daily life, be competent. In action, be aware of the time and the season.

If you can find true contentment, it will last forever.

If you can let go of (the Tao) with your mind and surround it with your heart, it will live inside you forever.

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

Truthful words are not beautiful; beautiful words are not truthful. Good words are not persuasive; persuasive words are not good.