Those who of old were good practicers of Tao did not use it to make people bright, but rather used it to make them simple.

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 inner is the foundation of the outer. The still is master of the restless. The Sage travels all day yet never leaves his inner treasure.

All action begins in rest... This is the ultimate truth.

Of the best rulers, The people only know that they exist; the next best they love and praise the next they fear; and the next they revile. When they do not command the people's faith, some will lose faith in them, and then they resort to oaths! But of the best when their task is accomplished, their work done, the people all remark, We have done it ourselves.

To rejoice in conquest is to rejoice in murder.

The sage never strives for greatness, and can therefore accomplish greatness.