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When the great Tao is abandoned, benevolence and righteousness arise.
Laozi
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Abandoning the natural way leads to the emergence of artificial moral concepts.

This quote by Laozi suggests that when humanity moves away from the natural and harmonious path (the Tao), artificial constructs like benevolence and righteousness emerge. These constructs, though often viewed as positives, signify a loss of the intrinsic wisdom found in following the natural way of the universe. It reflects on the idea that societal norms and moralities can be distortions stemming from a disconnection from a deeper understanding of life.

Themes

TaoBenevolenceRighteousnessMoralityWisdom

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion on moral philosophy, one might quote Laozi to highlight the importance of natural ethics over constructed morality.

More from Laozi

If you understand others you are smart._x000D_ If you understand yourself you are illuminated._x000D_ If you overcome others you are powerful._x000D_ If you overcome yourself you have strength._x000D_ If you know how to be satisfied you are rich._x000D_ If you can act with vigor, you have a will._x000D_ If you don't lose your objectives you can be long-lasting._x000D_ If you die without loss, you are eternal.
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