In order to contract, It is necessary first to expand. In order to weaken, It is necessary first to strengthen. In order to destroy, It is first necessary to promote. In order to grasp, It is necessary first to give. This is called subtle light. The weak and the tender overcome the hard and the strong.

The Way is hidden and nameless. Still only the Way nourishes and completes.

From caring comes courage.

Fill your bowl to the brim and it will spill. Keep sharpening your knife and it will blunt.

Who is there who can make muddy waters clear? But if allowed to remain still, it will gradually clear itself.

I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures.

Thus an army without flexibility never wins a battle. A tree that is unbending is easily broken.