Lao Tzu, also known as Laozi or Lao-Tze, is an important figure in the history of Chinese philosophy and religion. He is often recognized as the founder of Taoism, which has deeply influenced Chinese culture for over two millennia. In this post, we share powerful Lao Tzu quotes for daily inspiration.
Early Life
The birth and early life of Lao Tzu remain subjects of debate among historians. According to traditional Chinese accounts, however, Lao Tzu was born in the 6th century BCE in the state of Chu.
Historians believe that Lao Tzu served as a keeper of records in the royal archives. This allowed him to become well-versed in the politics and wisdom of his era. However, he quickly became disillusioned by the corruption and strife of the ruling class. As a result, Lao Tzu is believed to have left his position and embarked on a journey westward.
Source: Wikipedia
The Birth of Taoism
Legend has it that Lao Tzu’s journey took him to the western borders of the Chinese empire. There, he encountered a border guard who recognized his wisdom and requested that he record his teachings before departing. According to legend, this request inspired Lao Tzu to compose the “Tao Te Ching,” a foundational text of Taoism.
The “Tao Te Ching” consists of 81 short chapters that explore the concept of the Tao, or “the Way.” The Tao is the fundamental principle that underlies and unites all existence. It is central to the philosophy of Lao Tzu.
Lao Tzu’s teachings
One of the key ideas in the “Tao Te Ching” is the notion that the best way to live is in harmony with the Tao. According to Tzu, this can be accomplished by following the path of least resistance and embracing the natural order of things.
Lao Tzu emphasized the importance of simplicity, humility, and spontaneity. He also emphasized the avoidance of excessive desire and artificial striving. His philosophy advocates for a way of life that values inner peace, contentment, and a deep connection with nature.
Lao Tzu’s teachings had a deep influence on the development of Taoism. But they also profoundly influenced Chinese culture and religion. His ideas permeated various aspects of Chinese society, from traditional medicine and martial arts to poetry and art.
Source: Wikipedia
The Legacy of Lao Tzu
Lao Tzu is a figure of profound significance in the history of Chinese philosophy and religion. Much of his life remains shrouded in mystery. Nonetheless his teachings, as recorded in the “Tao Te Ching,” have had a lasting impact on the world. They continue to inspire millions in seeking a more meaningful and harmonious way of life
Famous Lao Tzu Quotes
Below are powerful Lao Tzu quotes from throughout his life and teachings. We hope these will be a source of inspiration and courage in your life.
Lao Tzu Quotes about Life
“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them; that only creates sorrow. “
“Knowledge is a treasure, but practice is the key to it.”
“Watch your thoughts; they become your words. Watch your words; they become your actions. Watch your actions; they become your habits. Watch your habits; they become your character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.”
“New beginnings are disguised as painful endings.”
“If you are depressed, you are living in the past; if you are anxious, you are living in the future; if you are at peace, you are living in the present.”
“Stop thinking and end your problems.”
“If you correct your mind, the rest of your life will fall into place.”
“Be content with what you have, rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.”
“Be still like a mountain, and flow like a river.”
“Let reality be a reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.”
“To a mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders.”
“Manifest plainness, embrace simplicity, reduce selfishness, and have few desires.”
“He who is contented is rich.”
“Health is the greatest possession.”
“Empty yourself of everything — let the mind become still.”
Lao Tzu Quotes about Leadership
“A leader is best when people barely know he exists. When his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.”
“The best fighter is never angry.”
“Knowing others is wisdom; knowing yourself is enlightenment.”
“A man with outward courage dares to die: a man with inner courage dares to live.”
“If you do not change the direction, you may end up where you are heading.”
“Mastering others is a strength; mastering yourself is true power.”
“Care about what other people think, and you will always be their prisoner.”
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”
“When you are content to simply be yourself and don’t compare or compete, everybody will respect you.”
“Confidence is the greatest friend.”
“When I let go of I am, I become what I might be.”
“Silence is a source of great strength.”
“Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.”
“Use the light that is within you to revert to your natural clearness of sight.”
Lao Tzu Quotes about Kindness
“Act without expectation.”
“The heart that gives, gathers.”
“Make your heart like a lake with a calm, still surface, and great depths of kindness.”
“Great acts are made-up of small deeds.”
“By letting go, it all gets done.”
Lao Tzu Quotes – Final Words
Lao Tzu is an important figure in the history of Chinese philosophy and religion. He is often recognized as the founder of Taoism, which has deeply influenced Chinese culture for over two millennia.
Much of Lao Tzu’s life is shrouded in mystery. Nevertheless, his teachings and the “Tao Te Ching” have had a profound and lasting impact on the world.
We hope you enjoyed these Lao Tzu quotes. Check out our site for more sources of inspiration.
