There is a thing inherent and natural which existed before heaven and earth. Motionless and fathomless, It stands alone and never changes; It pervades everywhere and never becomes exhausted. It may be regarded as the Mother of the Universe. I do not know its name. If I am forced to give It a name, I call it Tao, and I name it as supreme.
Interpretation
The quote speaks to the concept of the Tao, an eternal and unchanging force that exists before all things.
This quote by Laozi reflects on the nature of the Tao, an essential principle that transcends existence and stands as the source of all creation. It emphasizes the Tao's timeless, motionless essence that pervades the universe, suggesting a profound connection to the origins of life, illustrating that there is a fundamental truth that underlies all existence, which is beyond complete understanding yet can be experienced in its profundity.
In practice
In a discussion about the fundamental nature of reality or existence, one could quote Laozi to highlight the eternal and unchanging aspects of life.
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.
When nothing is done, nothing is left undone.
A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.
Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is enlightenment.
In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it.
Rule your mind with serenity rather than with force and manipulation.
Things are not to be judged good or bad merely because the public think so.
Life is pleasant. Death is peaceful. It's the transition that's troublesome.
If in the least particular, one could derange the order of nature, who would accept the gift of life?
Sure, some journalists use anonymous sources just because they’re lazy, and I think editors ought to insist on more precise identification even if they remain anonymous.
A display of indifference to all the actions and passions of mankind was not supposed to be such a distinguished quality at that time, I think, as I have observed it to be considered since. I have known it very fashionable indeed. I have seen it displayed with such success, that I have encountered some fine ladies and gentlemen who might as well have been born caterpillars.
We who don't want radical Islam to spread must compete with the agents of radical Islam. I want to see what would happen if Christians, feminists and Enlightenment thinkers were to start proselytizing in the Muslim community.
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