Sunday, August 18, 2013

Tao Te Ching: Chapter 33--Knowing Oneself


He who knows others is learned;
    He who knows himself is wise.
He who conquers others has power of muscles;
    He who conquers himself is strong.
He who is contented is rich.
    He who is determined has strength of will.
He who does not lose his center endures,
He who dies yet (his power) remains has long life.

The Wisdom of Laotse
trans. by Lin Yutang

This was also stressed by the Greeks. "Know thyself" is a Delphic maxim which apparently was carved into the forecourt of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi.  This chapter however goes beyond attaining knowledge and insists on action.  To know oneself is not enough: one must take
what one knows about oneself and act upon it to shape one's behavior.


  1. This thought is also found in the Christian bible. Truth is truth, and will be found in many sources. The only difference in Christianity is that grace (from God, through Christ) is given to believers to help them toward attaining this.

  2. Cheryl,

    I agree. Truth is not the sole possession of any one culture, religious tradition, or ethical system.

  3. My favourite Lao Tzu? 'When you have all you need, the world belongs to you'.

  4. Mrs. Madrigal,

    That's an interesting quotation. Which translation is that from?