The ego is entranced by ... names and ideas... However names and concepts only block your perception of this Great Oneness. Therefore it is wise to ignore them. Those who live inside their egos are continually bewildered.

Mold clay into a bowl. The empty space makes it useful.

Highest good is like water. Because water excels in benefiting the myriad creatures without contending with them and settles where none would like to be, it comes closest to the way.

The Sage expects no recognition for what he does; he achieves merit but does not take it to himself; he does not wish to display his worth.

Though (the Tao) is uncreated itself, it creates all things. Because it has no substance, it can enter into where there is no space. Exercising by returning to itself, winning victories by remaining gentle and yielding, it is softer than anything, and therefore overcomes everything hard.

People starve. The rulers consume too much with their taxes. That is why people starve.

Only he who does not seek to be ahead of others is capable of living in harmony with everyone.