The violent one cannot have a natural death.

The wise man does not lay up his own treasures. The more he gives to others, the more he has for his own.

The career of a sage is of two kinds: He is either honored by all in the world, Like a flower waving its head, Or else he disappears into the silent forest.

In conflict, be fair and generous. In governing, don't try to control.

To realize that you do not understand is a virtue; Not to realize that you do not understand is a defect.

Great acts are made up of small deeds.

When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.

A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: We did it ourselves.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

The power of intuitive understanding will protect you from harm until the end of your days.

Fail to honour people, they’ll fail to honour you.

Love is a decision, not an emotion.

Marriage is three parts love and seven parts forgiveness of sins.

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

Respond intelligently even to unintelligent treatment.

It is better to do one's own duty, however defective it may be, than to follow the duty of another, however well one may perform it. He who does his duty as his own nature reveals it, never sins.

Tranquility is returning to one’s nature.

Silence is a source of great strength.

To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders.

I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures.

Be the chief, but never the lord.

Surrender your self-interest. Love others as much as you love yourself. Then you can be entrusted with all things under heaven.

Life and death are one thread, the same line viewed from different sides.