Skip to content

He who regards the world as he does the fortune of his own…

“He who regards the world as he does the fortune of his own body can govern the world. He who loves the world as he does his own body can be entrusted with the world.” quote by Laozi
Download Open image
“He who regards the world as he does the fortune of his own body can govern the world. He who loves the world as he does his own body can be entrusted with the world.”

Laozi

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Seeing the world as an extension of one's own body leads to responsible stewardship; caring for it as one does oneself grants the right to guide it.

In simple terms: Treat the world like your own body to earn the right to lead it.

Key Takeaway

Respect the world to earn authority.

Themes

responsibility leadership stewardship

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • environmental activism
  • community leadership
  • personal health
  • political decision making

Key Concepts

Taoist philosophy ethical governance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you practice caring for the world as you care for yourself?
  • What obstacles prevent you from seeing the world as part of yourself?
A Different Perspective

Assumes individuals have the capacity and desire to care for the world as they do themselves.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Laozi

Explore all 1,140 Laozi quotes

More Body quotes

Browse all 20,814 Body quotes