Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.

The world is ruled by letting things take their course. It cannot be ruled by interfering.

To be constantly without desire is the way to have a vision of the mystery of heaven and earth. For constantly to have desire is the means by which their limitations are seen.

If you realize that all things change, there is nothing you will try to hold on to. If you are not afraid of dying, there is nothing you cannot achieve

The truly wise are content to be last. They are, therefore, first. They are indifferent to themselves. They are, therefore self-confident.

People are born soft and weak. They die hard and stiff.

The Tao is like a well; used but never used up.