Ambition Quote by Laozi
“Do not imagine that an integral being has the ambition of enlightening the unaware or raising worldly people to the divine realm. To her, there is no self and other, and hence no one to be raised; no heaven and hell, and hence no destination.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Tao Te Ching, c. 400 BC
The quote teaches that a truly enlightened being sees no distinction between self and other, thus has no desire to elevate anyone or achieve a heavenly goal.
In simple terms: Enlightened beings see no self‑other divide, so they don’t aim to lift others.
Key Takeaway
Recognize unity, let go of egoic ambition.
Themes
spirituality
nonduality
humility
Mood
contemplative
serene
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- meditation
- spiritual practice
- ethical leadership
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Taoism
emptiness
selflessness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does seeing no self change your daily interactions?
- Can unity exist without moral guidance?
A Different Perspective
Even without self‑other distinction, practical action still requires compassion and responsibility.
![“Through examples that are asserted by both, While not analyzing what serves the result. [4cd] In the way that worldly people see things, They conceive them as facts But not as illusionlike. Herein lies the dispute between yogins and worldly people. [S]” quote by Karl Brunnholzl](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ea7/karl-brunnholzl-4600_dispute-yogins_through-examples-that-are-asserted-by-bo_2506077.jpg)
