Lao Tzu is, without a doubt, one of the most influential philosophers in Chinese history. (and global). Although its historical existence remains a subject of debate, it is considered the founder of taoism and author of Tao Te Chinga fundamental text of this philosophical and spiritual tradition, its teachings continue to have an impact today.
Life and teachings of Lao Tzu
Lao Tzu is believed to have lived around the 6th century BC. c. He worked as a keeper of the royal court archives of the Zhou dynasty, but, disillusioned by political corruption and the social decline of his time, he left the court.
On the western border of the Chinese Empire, a guard recognized him and asked him to write down his wisdom and that is how he created the Tao Te Chingwhich is often translated as The book of the path and virtue. In each chapter he delves into his ideas around the nature of existence, the cosmos and the path to a harmonious life.
Lao Tzu advocated simplicity, humility and detachmentas well as living in harmony with nature and the flow of life.
20 inspiring quotes from Lao Tzu
Lao Tzu’s ideas have inspired many generations and they are still very valid today. The timeless wisdom displayed in his writings offers guidance to navigate life with meaning. Below you will find 20 of his most iconic and inspiring phrases that invite reflection.
9. «Kindness in words creates trust, kindness in thought creates depth, kindness in giving creates love.»
The small acts of kindness (through word, thought and action) foster deeper connections and harmony.
10. «The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long.»
Live with harmony and moderation It helps us preserve energy and vitality for the long journey of life.
11. “Act without expectations.”
A phrase that encourages us to perform actions for their intrinsic value rather than for the possible rewards or recognitions that we believe we can obtain.
12. “When you are content to simply be yourself and do not compare or compete, everyone will respect you.”
True respect comes from embracing our genuine selves and live in harmony with our inner nature.
13. “Before a serene mind, the entire universe surrenders.”
According to Lao Tzu, when the mind is calm, centered, and free of distractions, it becomes attuned to the world and can perceive and experience life more fully.
14. «Be content with what you have; rejoice that things are as they are. When you realize that you lack nothing, the whole world belongs to you.»
When we stop believing that we are missing something and we are satisfied with what we have, that is when we experience true plenitude.
15. «He who dominates other people is strong, he who dominates himself is powerful.»
Although dominating others may seem impressive, true power lies in the ability to control oneself.
16. «Those who flow as life flows know that they need no other strength.»
By aligning ourselves with the rhythms of lifewe experience a sense of peace, freedom and self-sufficiency.
17. «The reason the universe is eternal is that it does not live for itself, but rather gives life to others as it transforms.»
The eternal nature of the universe It comes from his willingness to give without seeking anything for himself.
18. «Health is the greatest possession. Joy is the greatest treasure. Confidence is the greatest friend. And peace of mind is the greatest happiness.»
The real fulfillment in life does not come from possessions or external achievements, but from internal qualities.
19. «By being compassionate with yourself, you reconcile all beings in the world.»
To cultivate harmony with the world, we must first practice understanding of ourselves.
20. «The wise man does not accumulate treasures. The more he gives to others, the more he has for himself.»
True wisdom lies in understanding that material wealth and possessions do not bring happiness.