The sage seeks freedom from desire. He does not collect precious things. He learns not to hold on to ideas. He brings men back to what they have lost.

Thirty spokes are joined in the wheel's hub. The hole in the middle makes it useful.

All streams flow to the sea because it is lower than they are. Humility gives it its power.

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

If a country is governed with tolerance, the people are comfortable and honest. If a country is governed with repression, the people are depressed and crafty. When the will to power is in charge, the higher the ideals, the lower the results. Try to make people happy, and you lay the groundwork for misery. Try to make people moral, and you lay the groundwork for vice. Thus the Master is content to serve as an example and not to impose her will. She is pointed, but doesn't pierce. Straightforward, but supple. Radiant, but easy on the eyes.

Requite injury with kindness.

Fame of self: Which matters more? Self or wealth: Which is more precious? Gain or loss: Which is more painful?