QuoteProject
The Tao which you know is not the eternal Tao
Laozi
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote suggests that human understanding is limited and cannot fully grasp the true essence of existence.

Laozi, a foundational figure in Taoist philosophy, emphasizes that the concepts and ideas we hold about the Tao (or 'the Way') are merely interpretations and do not capture its eternal and true nature. It reminds us that language and human perception are inadequate to encompass the full depth of reality and encourages a sense of humility towards the limits of our knowledge.

Themes

TaoPhilosophyKnowledgeUnderstandingExistence

In practice

Example use cases

In a philosophy class discussing the limits of human knowledge.

More from Laozi

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.
LaoziRead
When nothing is done, nothing is left undone.
LaoziRead
A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.
LaoziRead
Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is enlightenment.
LaoziRead
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.
LaoziRead
Rule your mind with serenity rather than with force and manipulation.
LaoziRead

Similar quotes

News networks giving a greater voice to viewers because the social web is so popular are like a chef on the Titanic who, seeing the looming iceberg and fleeing customers, figures ice is the future and starts making snow cones.
Randall MunroeRead
Once you understand non-self, then the burden of life is gone. You'll be at peace with the world. When we see beyond self, we no longer cling to happiness and we can truly be happy. Learn to let go without struggle, simply let go, to be just as you are - no holding on, no attachment, free.
Ajahn ChahRead
The more administrative machinery we construct, be it the most modern, the less place there is for the Spirit, the less place there is for the Lord, and the less freedom there is. It is my opinion that we ought to begin an unsparing examination of conscience on this point at all levels in the Church.
Pope Benedict XviRead
The idea of a superior or inferior race is a myth that has been completely refuted by anthropological evidence.
Martin Luther King, Jr.Read
There's always women of many different races on my shows, and there are always women who look many different ways, but there is still a size thing in this industry. It's hard. I mean to have to say, 'I want a larger woman to be an actor on my shows.' Or, 'Find me a larger woman,' is almost insulting to me.
Shonda RhimesRead
Spirit is the vast stillness which is behind all created things.
Paramahansa YoganandaRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.

Quote by Laozi | QuoteProject