Be the chief but never the lord.

Cultivate virtue in yourself, and it will be true.

You cannot know the body by studying the finger, and you cannot understand the universe by learning one science.

Do you think that you can clear your mind by sitting constantly in silent meditation? This makes your mind narrow, not clear. Integral awareness is fluid and adaptable, present in all places and at all times. That is true meditation. ... The Tao is clear and simple, and it doesn't avoid the world.

Governing a large state is like boiling a small fish.

There is no calamity greater than lavish desires. There is no greater guilt than discontent. And there is no greater disaster than greed.

He who conquers others is strong; He who conquers himself is mighty.