Laozi

Weapons are not proper instruments for gentle people; they use them only when they have no other choice. Peace and quiet are what they value. They do not glory in victory.

Laozi

Weapons are ominous tools. They are not the noble ruler’s tools. He only uses them when he can’t avoid it.

Laozi

What is firmly rooted cannot be pulled out.

Laozi

When armies are mobilized and issues joined, The man who is sorry over the fact will win.

Laozi

When goodness is lost, it is replaced by morality.

Laozi

When people devote themselves to something they always ruin it on the verge of success. Finish with the same care you took in beginning and you’ll avoid ruining things.

Laozi

When pure sincerity forms within, it is outwardly realized in other people’s hearts.

Laozi

When the work is done, and one’s name is becoming distinguished, to withdraw into obscurity is the way of Heaven.

Laozi

When the worst student hears about the Way, he laughs out loud. If he did not laugh, it would be unworthy of being the Way.

Laozi

When two opposing sides meet in battle, the one without an enemy will be victorious.

Laozi