177 Quotes About Tao

When I let go of who I am, I become who I might be.

Material and infinite are inseparableAppreciating their interconnectednessis the gateway to understanding

Heaven’s Tao is impartial,yet those who follow its compassionate waywill always be nourished

Understanding is very different from knowing. Understanding is a psychological process of perceiving an object through reason. It is, in a sense, conceptualizing an object. But an object cannot be fully comprehended by conceptual understanding alone. Knowing is not thinking artificially or mobilizing rational logic. It is a state in which you come to obviously and plainly know, without trying to get it right.

The sage gives more than he takes;how can he do this?because he has the richness of Tao

The Tao is the ultimate truth and substance of life. It is what all of humanity’s spiritual seekers havebeen pursuing, and it is complete oneness. It is the principle of life energy flowing behind all things in the cosmos, and it is the ultimate wholeness to which all things, on becoming one, return. Although it is all things in existence, the Tao is also the source and background that causes them to exist.

A good basic character should be developed even before discussing enlightenment or the growth of your soul. That’s why Zen initiates developed their basic character traits through nine years of study—three years of cleaning, three years of firewood collecting and cutting, and three years of cooking. Teachings on the Tao were transmitted only to those who had successfully cultivated such character in themselves.

Humanity is part of the cosmic family. All creation is within heaven and earth, but humanity has been given the added responsibility of protecting and caring for our cosmic parents. Humanity suffers when we destroy heaven and earth. Only when we show respect and courtesy toward our cosmic parents can we truly walk the path of the Tao.

Love from your heart. Allow love to flow from your heart, like the pure, clear waters of a rushing stream. Standing water putrefies and gives off a foul odor. In the same way, selective, closed love fills your heart with frustration. Love from the heart is unconditional love, an open thing that is offered widely and freely.