Those who praise victory relish manslaughter. Those who relish manslaughter cannot reach their goals in the world.
Interpretation
Victory should not come at the cost of violence, as it leads away from true achievement.
In this quote, Laozi conveys a profound philosophical message about the nature of victory and the consequences of violence. He suggests that those who celebrate victory through violent means are ultimately unable to achieve genuine success in the world, as their actions are rooted in destructiveness rather than constructive efforts. This perspective invites reflection on the values and ethics associated with our pursuits and the importance of peaceful methods in attaining our goals.
In practice
In a discussion about ethics in competitive sports, this quote can illustrate the importance of fair play over aggressive tactics.
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.
If you know that life is basically going to be horrendously difficult, at best, and all but unlivable at worst, or possibly even unlivable, do you go on? And the choice to go on is the only thing that I think can be called hope. Because if hope isn't forced to encounter the worst possibility, then it's a lie.
Become alert about desire and non-attachment begins to appear. This is not to be made to happen, it follows naturally from awareness of attachment. Each one of us has to become aware of his attachments, and keep being so! Nothing should be done unconsciously.
Whosoever holds this hammer, if he be worthy, shall possess the power of Thor.
I'm really very sorry for you all, but it's an unjust world, and virtue is triumphant only in theatrical performances.
Whether I am or am not a Communist is irrelevant. The question is whether American citizens, regardless of their political beliefs or sympathies, may enjoy their constitutional rights.
A woman may possess the wisdom and chastity of Minerva, and we give no heed to her, if she has a plain face. What folly will not a pair of bright eyes make pardonable? What dullness may not red lips are sweet accents render pleasant? And so, with their usual sense of justice, ladies argue that because a woman is handsome, therefore she is a fool. O ladies, ladies! there are some of you who are neither handsome nor wise.
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