Excerpt from Tao Teh Cing

Tao can be talked about, but not the eternal Tao
Names can be named, but not the eternal name

As the origin of heaven and earth, it is nameless
As the Mother of all things, it is nameable

So as ever hidden, we should look at its inner essence
As always manifest, we should look at its outer aspects

These two flow from the same source, though differently named;
And both are called mysteries

The mystery of mysteries is the Door of all essence.


By not exalting the talented you will cause the people to cease from rivalry and contention
By not prizing goods hard to get, you will cause the people to cease from robbing and stealing
By not displaying what is desirable, you will cause the people’s heart to remain undisturbed


Heaven lasts long, and Earth abides
What is the secret of their durability?
Is it not because they do not live for themselves
That they can live so long?


As far holding to fullness,
Far better were it to stop in time!

Keep on beating and sharpening a sword
And the edge cannot be preserved for long

Fill your house with gold and jade,
And it can no longer be guarded

Set store by your riches and honour
And you will only reap a crop of calamities

Here is the way of Heaven:
When you have done your work, retire!