The universe is everlasting. The reason that the universe…
““The universe is everlasting. The reason that the universe is everlasting is that it does not live for itself. Therefore it lasts. Therefore the sage puts himself behind, and finds himself in front, regards his person as outside himself, and his person is preserved. Is it not because he does not live for himself that he realizes himself?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The universe persists because it exists beyond self‑interest; the sage lives selflessly, finding preservation through self‑transcendence.
In simple terms: Self‑less living aligns with the universe's timelessness.
Key Takeaway
Practice humility and serve others.
Themes
philosophy
spirituality
selflessness
existence
Mood
contemplative
inspirational
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- meditation
- volunteering
- leadership training
Key Concepts
non‑attachment
ego dissolution
Questions to Reflect On
- How does self‑interest coexist with self‑lessness?
- Can personal goals support universal harmony?
A Different Perspective
Self‑interest can also drive progress.