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.
It is not in giving life but in risking life that man is raised above the animal; that is why superiority has been accorded in humanity not to the sex that brings forth but to that which kills.
Myth is an attempt to narrate a whole human experience, of which the purpose is too deep, going too deep in the blood and soul, for mental explanation or description.
The libertarian sees the State as a giant gang of organized criminals, who live off the theft called "taxation" and use the proceeds to kill, enslave, and generally push people around. Therefore, any property in the hands of the State is in the hands of thieves, and should be liberated as quickly as possible. Any person or group who liberates such property, who confiscates or appropriates it from the State, is performing a virtuous act and a signal service to the cause of liberty.
Life is like an eternal dance. The movements of the dance are choreographed through your awareness.
If they would rather die, . . . they had better do it, and decrease the surplus population.
Tis Man's to explore up and down, inch by inch, with the taper his reason.
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