"If the Great Way perishes there will morality and duty. When cleverness and knowledge arise great lies will flourish. When relatives fall out with one another there will be filial duty and love. When states are in confusion there will be faithful servants."

Wisdom

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Insight & Reflection

The theme of wisdom is universal, yet Lao Tzu manages to capture its essence in a uniquely profound way. Taking a moment to internalize this can shift our mindset, reminding us that our perspective on wisdom often shapes our reality.

About Lao Tzu

Laozi is the name traditionally given to an ancient Chinese philosopher, also identified as Li Er or Lao Dan, who is regarded as the author or originating teacher associated with the Tao Te Ching, one of the foundational texts of Taoism. Traditional accounts place him in the 6th century BC state of Chu during China's Spring and Autumn period, describe him as a keeper of archival records at the Zhou court, and remember him as an elder contemporary of Confucius. Modern scholars remain divided over his identity, dates, and precise relationship to the received text: some regard the traditional Laozi as largely or wholly legendary, while others consider a historical Lao Dan plausible and accept the tradition that he was a senior contemporary of Confucius.

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Editorial Note: This quote is curated and fact-checked by the Quotes Archive Editorial Team. Verified Literature Specialist.

More by Lao Tzu

"An hour spent in deep contemplation is worth a year of unguided wandering. Let this simple maxim guide your daily deeds — an essential principle for the reflective life."

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"The power of intuitive understanding will protect you from harm until the end of your days."

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"The ocean of adversity cannot drown the spirit that resolves to stay afloat. In this truth lies the bedrock of all virtue — an essential principle for the reflective life."

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