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.
Most of the world's religions serve only to strengthen attachments to false concepts such as self and other, life and death, heaven and earth, and so on. Those who become entangled in these false ideas are prevented from perceiving the Integral Oneness.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Laozi suggests that religions can reinforce misguided attachments that prevent understanding true unity in existence.
In this quote, Laozi articulates a critical view of many world religions, asserting that they often solidify misguided beliefs about separation, including notions of self versus other and life versus death. This entanglement in dualistic thinking curtails individuals' ability to perceive the fundamental interconnectedness of all things, which he refers to as 'Integral Oneness'. By emphasizing the division created by such concepts, Laozi invites a deeper exploration of unity and understanding beyond superficial distinctions.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on the role of religion in society, this quote can be used to illustrate how different beliefs can create divisions.
More from Laozi
All quotes →When nothing is done, nothing is left undone.
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