Lao Tzu: 'In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it.'

In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it.

Lao Tzu, an ancient Chinese philosopher, once said, "In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it." This quote holds a profound meaning and conveys an important message about the power of flexibility, adaptability, and perseverance.At a first glance, this quote highlights the apparent contradiction between water's submissive nature and its ability to overcome formidable obstacles. Water, by its very nature, is considered weak and gentle. It takes the shape of its container, flows effortlessly, and appears to lack strength. However, when faced with obstacles such as rocks or barriers, water showcases its true strength. Although it may seem weak, water's persistent and continuous movement ultimately erodes even the hardest and strongest of materials.This quote serves as a metaphor for life, reminding us that appearances can be deceiving. It suggests that true power lies not in brute force, but rather in adaptability and perseverance. Often, we find ourselves confronting seemingly insurmountable challenges, whether in personal relationships, professional endeavors, or inner conflicts. In these moments, Lao Tzu's words encourage us to approach these challenges with the qualities of water—flexibility, patience, and resilience.Water, as the source of life and a universal symbol of purity, possesses the ability to adapt to any circumstance. It teaches us the value of going with the flow and adjusting our plans when needed. Much like water changes its course to navigate around obstacles, we too must learn to embrace change and adjust our paths to overcome challenges.Moreover, water's continuous flow also represents never-ending progress. It reminds us that even small, incremental changes over time can lead to significant transformations. By persistently working towards our goals, no matter how challenging they may seem, we too can gradually wear down even the strongest resistance.In a society that often glorifies strength and dominance, Lao Tzu's quote offers a refreshing perspective. It invites us to shift our focus from brute force to the power of adaptability and resilience. Water's ability to effortlessly find its way, despite encountering numerous obstacles, reminds us that sometimes the greatest strength lies in surrendering control and embracing the natural rhythm of life.Now, let's delve into an unexpected philosophical concept that echoes the essence of Lao Tzu's quote—existentialism. Existentialism, a philosophical movement that emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and the responsibility to create meaning in life.At first glance, existentialism may seem disconnected from the quote by Lao Tzu, but upon closer examination, parallels can be drawn. Existentialism contends that individuals have the freedom to define their own lives, regardless of external circumstances or societal expectations. This philosophy encourages us to face the inherent difficulties and uncertainties of existence head-on, without subscribing to predefined notions of success or strength.Water, in its submissive and weak appearance, embodies the existentialist spirit. Rather than resisting or forcefully confronting the obstacles it encounters, water embraces its own nature and works in harmony with the world around it. It adapts effortlessly, moving with the flow of life rather than against it. In this sense, water's power lies not in overpowering or dominating but in accepting and flowing.The concept of existentialism, when intertwined with Lao Tzu's quote, reminds us that true strength comes from aligning ourselves with our authentic selves and the natural order of things. By recognizing and accepting our limitations, fears, and vulnerabilities, we can tap into a reservoir of inner strength that arises from within, just as water taps into its source and flows unceasingly.In conclusion, Lao Tzu's quote inspires us to reflect on the paradoxical power of water. It challenges us to redefine our understanding of strength and encourages us to embrace flexibility, patience, and resilience. By comparing this quote to existentialism, we are further reminded of the significance of embracing our authentic selves and aligning with the intrinsic nature of life. As we navigate the complexities of existence, let us remember that the seemingly submissive and weak can triumph over the hard and strong in ways we could never imagine.