Govern a great nation as you would cook a small fish. Do not overdo it.

Pounding an edge to sharpness will not make it last.

All things issue from it; all things return to it. To find the origin, trace back the manifestations. When you recognize the children and find the mother, you will be free of sorrow. If you close your mind in judgements and traffic with desires, your heart will be troubled. If you keep your mind from judging and aren't led by the senses, your heart will find peace. Seeing into darkness is clarity. Knowing how to yield is strength. Use your own light and return to the source of light. This is called practicing eternity.

The sage does not strive to be great. Thereby he can accomplish the great.

Excellent conquerors do not engage.

The greatest teacher has nothing to say. He simply gives himself in service, and never worries.

A great nation is like a great man:When he makes a mistake, he realizes it.Having realized it, he admits it.Having admitted it, he corrects it.He considers those who point out his faultsas his most benevolent teachers.He thinks of his enemyas the shadow that he himself casts.