. . . These are notions of the mind, which is like a knife, always chipping away at the Tao, trying to render it graspable and manageable. But that which is beyond form is ungraspable, and that which is beyond knowing is unmanageable. There is, however, this consolation: She who lets go of the knife will find the Tao at her fingertips.

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

Intellectual knowledge exists in and of the brain. Because the brain is part of the body, which must one day expire, this collection of facts, however large and impressive, will expire as well. {But spiritual insight transcends death.}

The virtuous carry out the settlement, but those without virtue pursue their claims.

The best way to manage anything is by making use of its own nature.

Those who know are wise. Those who know themselves are enlightened.

Arms are instruments of ill omen, not the instruments of the gentleman. When one is compelled to use them, it is best to do so without relish.