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Spartan Surfers

Tao Te Ching and Zhuangzi quotes

Lao Tzu and Zhuangzi, each line with the classical Chinese behind it. Water, softness and the strength that does not push.

  1. An empty boat hits yours and you don't get mad. Be the empty boat.Zhuangzi
  2. Don't talk ocean with a frog in a well.Zhuangzi
  3. Beating others takes force. Beating yourself takes strength.Lao Tzu
  4. The highest good is like water.Lao Tzu
  5. Down with the whirl, up with the surge. Follow the water's way.Zhuangzi
  6. Let muddy water sit still and it clears.Lao Tzu
  7. Look plain. Hold the uncarved block. Want little.Lao Tzu
  8. Still water shows every hair. Imagine a still mind.Zhuangzi
  9. Stand on tiptoe and you won't stand. Overstride and you won't go.Lao Tzu
  10. Play for clay and you're sharp. Play for gold and you choke.Zhuangzi
  11. Knowing others is smart. Knowing yourself is clear.Lao Tzu
  12. Life has a limit. Knowledge has none.Zhuangzi

Wear them

All 88

88 lines

Questions

Where do these tao te ching and zhuangzi quotes come from?
Each of the 88 lines links to its own page with the book and passage it comes from, the original-language wording and how it was translated. Nothing is attributed without a source.
Can I get these quotes on a shirt?
Yes. 6 of them are printed on our tees and caps, with the Spartan Surfers helmet and our coordinates on every piece. 2 pieces 10% off, 3 pieces 15%, 4 or more 20%. Free US shipping on everything.