Single Idea 6325

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / A. Wisdom / 2. Wise People]

Full Idea

One who knows does not speak; one who speaks does not know.

Gist of Idea

One who knows does not speak; one who speaks does not know

Source

Laozi (Lao Tzu) (Daodejing (Tao Te Ching) [c.530 BCE], II.LVI.128)

Book Reference

Lao Tzu: 'Tao Te Ching', ed/tr. Lau,D.C. [Penguin 1963], p.117


A Reaction

A famous remark, which my western mind finds simply perplexing. It strikes me as wicked selfishness to keep your wisdom to yourself, and not try to persuade others to follow it. We are all in this together, I say.