Weapons are ominous tools. They are not the noble ruler's tools. He only uses them when he can't avoid it.
Interpretation
Weapons should only be used as a last resort, not as instruments of power.
In this quote, Laozi emphasizes the idea that weapons are inherently dangerous and not suitable for a noble leader's toolkit. A true leader resorts to the use of weapons only when absolutely necessary, portraying a preference for peace and diplomacy over violence and conflict. It serves as a reminder of the heavy responsibility that comes with power and the moral implications of using force.
In practice
In a speech on peacekeeping, one might reference this quote to highlight the importance of diplomacy.
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.
There is no repose for the mind except in the absolute; for feeling, except in the infinite; for the soul, except in the divine.
Whatever skills I have acquired, whatever gifts I have been given, I place them at Your service.
'What I believe' is a process rather than a finality. Finalities are for gods and governments, not for the human intellect.
I have not so great a struggle with my vices, great and numerous as they are, as I have with my impatience. My efforts are not absolutely useless; yet I have never been able to conquer this ferocious wild beast.
The first act of violence that patriarchy demands of males is not violence toward women. Instead patriarchy demands of all males that they engage in acts of psychic self-mutilation, that they kill off the emotional parts of themselves. If an individual is not successful in emotionally crippling himself, he can count on patriarchal men to enact rituals of power that will assault his self-esteem.
Wherever we see the Word of God purely preached and heard, there a church of God exists, even if it swarms with many faults.
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