Free from desire, you realize the mystery, caught in the desire, you see only the manifestations.

Do not conquer the world with force, for force only causes resistance. Thorns spring up when an army passes. Years of misery follow a great victory. Do only what needs to be done without using violence.

That which is achieved the most, still has the whole of its future yet to be achieved.

He does not struggle with anyone - thus no one can vanquish him.

Do not strive for the shine of jade, but clatter like stone.

First, we must do our own personal work, then we tend the necessary work of our family, then our community, then the world.

To bear the country's disgrace is to rule the shrines of soil and grain. To bear the country's misfortunes is to be the king of the world.