Lao Tzu
601 BC – 531 BC
Lao Tzu (6th century BCE) is the legendary founder of Taoism and the reputed author of the 'Tao Te Ching'. Little is known about his life with certainty; legend holds that he departed China on a water buffalo after completing his masterwork, leaving only the 81 verses that would become one of the most translated and influential texts in world literature, advocating simplicity, spontaneity, and harmony with nature.
Key works: Tao Te Ching · Tao Te Ching ( verse)
Top quotes by Lao Tzu
“If you want to accord with the Tao, just do your job, then let go.”
Read the full explanation →“The wise man is one who, knows, what he does not know.”
Read the full explanation →“Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.”
Read the full explanation →“The wise man is like the moon, he does not shine, but he reflects the light of heaven and of earth.”
Read the full explanation →“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”
Read the full explanation →“When you are content to be simply yourself and don't compare or compete, everybody will respect you.”
Read the full explanation →“The wise man does not separate himself from men, and what he says is treasured by the people.”
Read the full explanation →“If you look to others for fulfillment, you will never truly be fulfilled.”
Read the full explanation →“The wise man is not perfect. He is only less imperfect than others.”
Read the full explanation →“He who knows others is wise; He who knows himself is enlightened.”
Read the full explanation →
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