Your name or your body, what is dearer? Your body or your wealth, what is worthier?
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the intrinsic value of one's identity and physical existence over material wealth.
Laozi's quote invites us to reflect on the importance of our true essence compared to our possessions and physical attributes. It suggests that our name, which symbolizes our identity, and our body, which houses our spirit, hold greater significance than wealth, prompting us to prioritize our true self over material pursuits.
In practice
In a discussion about priorities in life, you might quote Laozi to highlight the importance of self over material goods.
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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Prophet!" said I, "thing of evil! - prophet still, if bird or devil! By that Heaven that bends above us- by that God we both adore- Tell this soul with sorrow laden if, within the distant Aidenn, It shall clasp a sainted maiden whom the angels name Lenore- Clasp a rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore." Quoth the Raven, "Nevermore.
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'Thank you' is the best prayer that anyone could say.
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The philosophy of waiting is sustained by all the oracles of the universe.
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