The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao; the name that can be named is not the eternal name. The Nameless is the origin of Heaven and Earth; the Named is the mother of all things.
Lao TzuRead
All things in the world come from being. And being comes from non-being.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the fundamental relationship between existence and non-existence.
Lao Tzu's quote reflects the philosophical concepts of being and non-being, suggesting that all aspects of reality stem from the state of existence, which itself arises from non-existence. This notion emphasizes the idea that creation and existence are intrinsically linked, where absence precedes presence, signifying a deeper understanding of the nature of reality and existence.
Themes
BeingNon-BeingExistencePhilosophyReality
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the nature of existence in a philosophy class.
More from Lao Tzu
All quotes βIn dwelling, live close to the ground. In thinking, keep to the simple. In conflict, be fair and generous. In governing, don't try to control. In work, do what you enjoy. In family life, be completely present.
Lao TzuRead
Sincere words are not fine; fine words are not sincere.
Lao TzuRead
To realize that you do not understand is a virtue; Not to realize that you do not understand is a defect.
Lao TzuRead
If you keep feeling a point that has been sharpened, the point cannot long preserve its sharpness.
Lao TzuRead
The softest things in the world overcome the hardest things in the world.
Lao TzuRead
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