“The higher the sun ariseth, the less shadow doth he cast; even so the greater is the goodness, the less doth it covet praise; yet cannot avoid its rewards in honours.”
- 571 BC? – 470 BC?
- Born in China
- Philosopher
- Founder of Taoism, author of the Tao Te Ching and systematized Taoist thought
Quote
“The higher the sun ariseth, the less shadow doth he cast; even so the greater is the goodness, the less doth it covet praise; yet cannot avoid its rewards in honours.”
Explanation
This quote from Laozi uses the metaphor of the sun to illustrate the nature of true goodness and humility. Laozi suggests that just as the sun, when it rises higher in the sky, casts less shadow, so too does greater goodness radiate without the need for recognition or praise. The truly good person or action does not seek external validation or glory; rather, it simply shines with its inherent virtue. However, despite not desiring recognition, true goodness cannot help but attract honour and respect naturally, as its impact and effectiveness are evident to all. In this way, Laozi suggests that greatness is most often recognized not through pursuit of recognition, but through the genuine quality and authenticity of one’s actions.
In modern life, this principle speaks to the idea that true leadership and virtue are not about seeking praise or external rewards, but about doing what is right and good for the sake of the greater good. Leaders who act out of integrity and wisdom, without seeking attention or acclaim, often inspire the deepest respect and admiration from others. Similarly, in our personal lives, the greatest acts of kindness, service, and selflessness often go unnoticed, yet they make a lasting impact on the world around us. Laozi’s teaching reminds us that we should focus not on seeking praise, but on living in alignment with our highest values and allowing the rewards of respect and honour to follow naturally.
The quote also highlights a profound aspect of humility—that those who are truly great are often the least concerned with being acknowledged for their greatness. Instead of seeking the spotlight, their goodness radiates quietly and naturally. This allows them to remain humble, grounded, and unaffected by the ego-driven desire for recognition. Laozi’s wisdom invites us to embody this humility, understanding that true strength and greatness come not from seeking accolades, but from living a life that is inherently aligned with goodness and truth.
