Lao Tzu: Violence always rebounds upon oneself

Laozi by Zhang Lu; Ming dynasty (1368–1644)

Whoever relies upon the Tao for governing men
doesn’t try to force issues
or defeat enemies by force of arms.
For every force, there is a counter force.
Violence, even well intentioned,
Always rebounds upon oneself.

The master does his job
and then stops.
He understands that the universe
is forever out of control
and that trying to dominate events
goes against the currents of the Tao
Because he believes in himself,
he does not try to convince others,
Because he is content with himself,
he does not need others approval.
Because he accepts himself,
the whole universe accepts him.

Lao Tzu (Tao Te Ching) 5th Century BCE.

Laozi by Zhang Lu; Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
Laozi by Zhang Lu; Ming dynasty (1368–1644)

Published by Content Catnip

Content Catnip is a quirky internet wunderkammer written by an Intergalactic Space Māori named Content Catnip. Join me as I meander through the quirky and curious aspects of history, indigenous spirituality, the natural world, animals, art, storytelling, books, philosophy, travel, Māori culture and loads more.

6 thoughts on “Lao Tzu: Violence always rebounds upon oneself

  1. That understanding that “the universe is forever out of control” yet still being content and believing in oneself is a key to getting through every day, whether we are on a battlefield, taking out the refuse or facing a pandemic. You are so good at picking out good, relevant content. Thanks as always x

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I love to collect these aphorisms and quotes like gleaming shells on the beach. Sometimes like in this case they could be relevant to 1,000 different situations, I am merely the collector and the postal worker who delivers them to you hehe… someone else great wrote it though 😉

      Like

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