Weapons are ominous tools. They are abhorred by all creatures. Anyone who follows the Way shuns them.
Interpretation
Weapons are feared and rejected by all living beings, and those who embrace the right path avoid them.
This quote by Laozi emphasizes the negative nature of weapons and violence, suggesting that true wisdom and the way of life advocate for peace and avoidance of harmful tools. It reflects a philosophical perspective that values harmony over conflict, implying that those who are on a virtuous path will steer clear of such ominous implements.
In practice
During a discussion on conflict resolution, one might quote Laozi to emphasize the importance of peaceful measures.
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.
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Rule your mind with serenity rather than with force and manipulation.
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Prana is implicate to matter but explicate to mind; mind is implicate to prana but explicate to soul; soul is implicate to mind but explicate to spirit; and the spirit is the source and suchness of the entire sequence.
Indifference is the dead weight of history.
While in a vintage restaurant..."the past isn't quaint while you're in it. Only at a safe distance, later, when you see it as decor, not as the shape your life's been squeezed into.
Church practice has been more influenced by Plato than by Jesus. We invariably prefer the universal synthesis, the answer that settles all the dust and resolves every question even when it is not entirely true over the mercy and grace of God.
Why can’t the world hear? I ask myself. Within a few moments I ask it many times. Because it doesn’t care, I finally answer, and I know I’m right. It’s like I’ve been chosen. But chosen for what? I ask.
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