Lao Tzu quotes

Lao Tzu, a famous Chinese philosopher, is believed to have lived in the 6th century BCE. Regarded as the founder of Taoism, his wisdom and teachings have had a profound influence on Chinese culture and philosophy. Lao Tzu is known for his seminal work "Tao Te Ching," which explores the concept of Tao (the Way) and its harmonious balance with nature and humanity. His philosophy emphasizes simplicity, humility, and non-interference, advocating for a life of contentment and inner peace. Though shrouded in mystery, Lao Tzu's teachings continue to inspire and guide individuals seeking spiritual enlightenment globally.

The way of the sage is to act but not to compete.

- Lao Tzu

The truth is not always beautiful, nor beautiful words the truth.

- Lao Tzu

The sage does not accumulate for himself. The more he uses for others, the more he has himself. The more he gives to others, the more he has himself.

- Lao Tzu

The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long.

- Lao Tzu

Stop thinking, and end your problems.

- Lao Tzu

Our enemies are not demons, but human beings like ourselves.

- Lao Tzu

Let your workings remain a mystery. Just show people the results.

- Lao Tzu

If you do not change direction, you may end up where you’re heading.

- Lao Tzu

If you are depressed you are living in the past. If you are anxious you are living in the future. If you are at peace you are living in the present.

- Lao Tzu

He who knows, does not speak. He who speaks, does not know.

- Lao Tzu

He who knows others is clever; He who knows himself has discernment.

- Lao Tzu

He who knows he has enough is rich.

- Lao Tzu

Care about what other people think and you will always be their prisoner.

- Lao Tzu

Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.

- Lao Tzu

Because one believes in oneself, one doesn't try to convince others. Because one is content with oneself, one doesn't need others' approval. Because one accepts oneself, the whole world accepts him or her.

- Lao Tzu

Be content with what you have, rejoice in the way things are. When you realise there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.

- Lao Tzu

Be careful what you water your dreams with. Water them with worry and fear and you will produce weeds that choke the life from your dream. Water them with optimism and solutions and you will cultivate success.

- Lao Tzu

A man with outward courage dares to die; a man with inner courage dares to live.

- Lao Tzu

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

- Lao Tzu

A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.

- Lao Tzu

The biggest problem in the world could have been solved when it was small.

- Lao Tzu

As for the best leaders, the people do not notice their existence. The next best, the people honour and praise. The next, the people fear and the next, the people hate. When the best leader’s work is done, the people say 'We did it ourselves'.

- Lao Tzu

To know yet to think that one does not know is best; Not to know yet to think that one knows will lead to difficulty.

- Lao Tzu

He who controls others may be powerful, but he who has mastered himself is mightier still.

- Lao Tzu

Great indeed is the sublimity of the Creative, to which all beings owe their beginning and which permeates all heaven.

- Lao Tzu

He who does not trust enough, Will not be trusted.

- Lao Tzu

He who knows that enough is enough will always have enough.

- Lao Tzu

The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.

- Lao Tzu

The softest things in the world overcome the hardest things in the world.

- Lao Tzu

I do not concern myself with gods and spirits either good or evil nor do I serve any.

- Lao Tzu