The whole world says that my Way is great like nothing else. It is great because it is like nothing else. If it were like everything else, it would long ago have become insignificant.

He who conquers others is strong; He who conquers himself is mighty.

The leader is best, When people are hardly aware of his existence, Not so good when people praise his government, Less good when people stand in fear, Worst, when people are contemptuous. Fail to honor people, and they will fail to honor you. But of a good leader, who speaks little, When his work is done, his aim fulfilled, The people say, 'We did it ourselves.'

I do not know its name. I call it the Way. For the lack of better words I call it great.

He who knows himself is enlightened.

Virtue in its grandest aspect is neither more nor less than following reason.

The more we give to others, the more we are increased.