Through return to simple living comes control of desires. In control of desires stillness is attained. In stillness the world is restored.

The Tao is infinite, eternal. Why is it eternal? It was never born; thus it can never die. Why is it infinite? It has no desires for itself; thus it is present for all beings. The Master stays behind; that is why she is ahead. She is detached from all things; that is why she is one with them. Because she has let go of herself, she is perfectly fulfilled.

When two opposing sides meet in battle, the one without an enemy will be victorious.

Don't imagine that you'll discover {the truth} by accumulating more knowledge. Knowledge creates doubt, and doubt makes you ravenous for more knowledge. You can't get full eating this way.

Those who are quiet value the words. When their task is completed, people will say: We did it ourselves.

Weapons are instruments of fear; they are not a wise man's tools. He uses them only when he has no choice.

In the world there are four greats, and the king is one of them.