As it acts in the world, the Tao is like the bending of a bow. The top is bent downward; the bottom is bent up. It adjusts excess and deficiency so that there is perfect balance.

He who knows much about others may be learned, but he who understands himself is more intelligent. He who controls others may be powerful, but he who has mastered himself is mightier still.

Those who have hardened, have a covenant with Death. Those who remain gentle are conjoined with Life.

If you are untrustworthy, people will not trust you.

People starve. The rulers consume too much with their taxes. That is why people starve.

Learn from the people. Plan with the people. Begin with what they have. Build on what they know.

If you go searching for the Great Creator, you will come back empty-handed. The source of the universe is ultimately unknowable, a great invisible river flowing forever through a vast and fertile valley. Silent and uncreated, it creates all things.