Eastern Philosophy

Tao Te Ching: 6 key ideas

The core ideas of Tao Te Ching, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.

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  1. IDEA 1 OF 6

    The Tao can't be named

    The way that can be spoken of is not the eternal way.

    Reality exceeds words.

  2. IDEA 2 OF 6

    Wu wei

    Act without forcing.

    Like water, yield and flow around obstacles, yet wear down rock.

  3. IDEA 3 OF 6

    Less is more

    Fill a bowl to the brim and it spills.

    Know when to stop.

  4. IDEA 4 OF 6

    Lead from behind

    The best leaders are barely known; when work is done, people say "we did it ourselves".

  5. IDEA 5 OF 6

    Softness wins

    The soft and flexible endure; the hard and rigid break.

  6. IDEA 6 OF 6

    Contentment

    Whoever knows enough is rich.

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