When the uncarved wood is split, its parts are put to use. When the sage is put to use, he becomes the head.

There is something obscure which is complete before heaven and earth arose; tranquil, quiet, standing alone without change, moving without peril. It could be the mother of everything. Not knowing its name, I call it Tao.

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.

From What-is all the world of things was born But What-is sprang in turn from What-is-not.

When one gives whatever one can without restraint, the barriers of individuality break down. It no longer becomes possible to tell whether it is the student offering himself to the teacher, or the teacher offering herself to the student. One sees only two immaculate beings, reflecting one another like a pair of brilliant mirrors.

Do you think you can make the world a better place? I do not think you can. It is already perfect.

People take death lightly. They expect too much of life. That is why people take death lightly.