We desire to understand the world by giving names to the things we see, but these things are only the effects of something subtle.

Abandon cleverness, discard profit, and thieves and robbers will disappear.

The way to use life is to do nothing through acting, The way to use life is to do everything through being.

The Master views the parts with compassion, because he understands the whole. His constant practice is humility. He doesn't glitter like a jewel but lets himself be shaped by the Tao, as rugged and common as a stone.

The skillful traveller leaves no traces of his wheels.

Do not look only at yourself, and you will see much. Do not justify yourself, and you will be distinguished. Do not brag, and you will have merit. Do not be prideful, and your work will endure.

He who walks on tip-toe does not walk on solid ground.