Its name-what passes not away.
Interpretation
The quote suggests that true essence and existence endure beyond temporal changes.
Laozi's saying reminds us that while physical forms and situations may change or fade away, the essential nature or 'name' of something is eternal. This reflects a fundamental idea in Taoist philosophy that emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying truths of existence beyond mere appearances and transient experiences.
In practice
During a graduation speech to inspire students about the enduring nature of knowledge.
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.
Crime is a product of social excess.
If your heart acquires strength, you will be able to remove blemishes from others without thinking evil of them.
One must know oneself. If this does not serve to discover truth, it at least serves as a rule of life and there is nothing better.
Men of patriarchal cultures have been committing heinous acts in the name of their God ever since they created a god for themselves. It seems that the earlier, goddess-oriented, nature-centered religions were far less cruel.
I will call not just on Israel, but on the Palestinians, on the Arab States, and the international community to join us in this effort, because the burden of making hard choices must not be Israelβs alone.
Stupidity is also a gift of God, but one mustn't misuse it.
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