There is a thing inherent and natural which existed before heaven and earth. Motionless and fathomless, It stands alone and never changes; It pervades everywhere and never becomes exhausted. It may be regarded as the Mother of the Universe. I do not know its name. If I am forced to give It a name, I call it Tao, and I name it as supreme.

The great Way is easy, yet people prefer the side paths. Be aware when things are out of balance. Stay centered within the Tao.

You should rule a great country As you would fry a small fish- With the least turning.

The people suffer from famine because of the multitude of taxes consumed by their superiors. It is through this that they suffer famine.

Whatever is fluid, soft, and yielding will overcome whatever is rigid and hard. What is soft is strong.

What the Way is to the world, the stream is to the river and the sea.

Clay is used to make vases, but it is the emptiness they contain that makes them useful.