Attain utmost emptiness. Abide in steadfast stillness.

Things exalted then decay. This is going against the Way. What goes against the Way meets an early end.

The world is a sacred vessel that cannot be changed. He who changes it will destroy it. He who seizes it will lose it.

Weapons are the tools of violence;all decent men detest them.Weapons are the tools of fear;a decent man will avoid themexcept in the direst necessityand, if compelled, will use themonly with the utmost restraint.Peace is his highest value.If the peace has been shattered,how can he be content?His enemies are not demons,but human beings like himself.He doesn't wish them personal harm.Nor does he rejoice in victory.How could he rejoice in victoryand delight in the slaughter of men?He enters a battle gravely,with sorrow and with great compassion,as if he were attending a funeral

Those who know are not learned. Those who are learned do not know.

What is well rooted cannot be pulled up. What is firmly grasped will not slip loose. It will be honoured from generation to generation.

The truest sayings are paradoxical.