Character Quote by Laozi
“The highest virtue is not virtuous. Therefore it has virtue. The lowest virtue holds on to virtue. Therefore it has no virtue.”
About This Quote
Source Classic: Tao Te Ching, c. 400 BC
Virtue is paradoxical: the highest virtue lacks virtue, while the lowest clings to it, thus lacking true virtue.
In simple terms: True virtue is beyond self‑labeling.
Key Takeaway
Seek authentic virtue, not its appearance.
Themes
virtue
paradox
authenticity
Mood
contemplative
philosophical
Type
spiritual
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal ethics
- spiritual practice
- leadership decisions
Key Concepts
Taoism
philosophical paradox
Questions to Reflect On
- What does genuine virtue look like?
- How can you avoid false virtue?
A Different Perspective
Misinterpretation can lead to moral relativism.
![“Virtue consists in avoiding vice, and is the highest wisdom. [Lat., Virtus est vitium fugere, et sapientia prima.]” quote by Horace](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c67/horace-172_avoiding_virtue-consists-in-avoiding-vice-and-is_1119709.jpg)
