Lao Tzu

Chinese philosopher, author of "Tao Te Ching"

Lao Tzu quotes

Memorable quotes, proverbs, sayings from the great chinese thinker and philosopher


The founder of the philosophical system known as Chinese Taoism, Lao Tzu was a prominent Chinese philosopher who is believed to have lived in the 6th Century BC. He is the author of the Tao-Te-Ching, which is translated as ‘The Way of Virtue,’ and is a much-loved and appreciated guide on how to live a simple yet meaningful life while adhering to traditional Chinese values and principles. In the work of Lao Tzu and fellow Taoists like Confucius, we can find timeless wisdom and some of the secrets to living a meaningful and peaceful life.

One thing that is greatly appreciated about Lao Tzu and his Taoist philosophy is its applicability in many cultures and traditions across the world. Taoism is neither a religion nor a political system and is simply an approach that individuals can seek to follow in their everyday lives to seek more balance and be more mindful of the world around them.

The non-aggressive principles of Taoism advocate humility and encourage people to be more considerate of the other people and animals that they share the world with. As such, the works of Lao Tzu and other Taoist authors from centuries past are extremely quotable, and many people find solace and inspiration from their simple yet transformative words. More about Lao Tzu.

 
Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.
- Lao Tzu
Love is of all passions the strongest, for it attacks simultaneously the head, the heart, and the senses.
- Lao Tzu
To lead people, walk beside them. As for the best leaders, the people do not notice their existence … When the best leader’s work is done, the people say, ‘We did it ourselves!
- Lao Tzu
The one who figures on victory at headquarters before even doing battle is the one who has the most strategic factors on his side.
- Lao Tzu
Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.
- Lao Tzu
When you are content to be simply yourself and don’t compare or compete, everyone will respect you.
- Lao Tzu
Lao Tzu sayings about hope
As long as we have hope, we have direction, the energy to move, and the map to move by.
- Lao Tzu
Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be a reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.
- 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
Lao Tzu
When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.
- Lao Tzu
Who acts in stillness finds stillness in his life.
- Lao Tzu
He who controls others may be powerful, but he who has mastered himself is mightier still.
- Lao Tzu
Respond intelligently even to unintelligent treatment
- Lao Tzu
Those who know do not speak. Those who speak do not know.
- Lao Tzu
Stop thinking, and end your problems.
- Lao Tzu
If you do not value rare treasures, you will stop others from stealing.
- Lao Tzu
The best fighter is never angry.
- Lao Tzu
Love is a decision - not an emotion!
- Lao Tzu
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.
- Lao Tzu
Fill your bowl to the brim and it will spill. Keep sharpening your knife and it will blunt.
- Lao Tzu
The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.
- Lao Tzu
Care about what other people think and you will always be their prisoner.
- Lao Tzu
A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.
- Lao Tzu
Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.
- Lao Tzu
Empty yourself of everything – let the mind become still.
- Lao Tzu
The ten thousand things flourish and then each return to the root from which it came. Returning to the root is stillness. Through stillness, each fulfils its destiny.
- Lao Tzu
Muddy water, let stand, becomes clear.
- Lao Tzu
He, who tries to shine, dims his own light.
- Lao Tzu
Remind yourself daily, there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way.
- Lao Tzu
The world is ruled by letting things take their course.
- Lao Tzu
Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.
- Lao Tzu
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