“Health is the greatest possession. Contentment is the greatest treasure. Confidence is the greatest friend. Non-being is the greatest joy.”
- 571 BC? – 470 BC?
- Born in China
- Philosopher
- Founder of Taoism, author of the Tao Te Ching and systematized Taoist thought
table of contents
Quote
“Health is the greatest possession. Contentment is the greatest treasure. Confidence is the greatest friend. Non-being is the greatest joy.”
Explanation
This quote from Laozi emphasizes the fundamental values that contribute to a balanced, peaceful life. Laozi places health at the top of the list, recognizing it as the most valuable possession, as it is the foundation for all other aspects of well-being. Without good health, everything else becomes secondary, and no material wealth or success can provide true fulfillment. Similarly, contentment is seen as the greatest treasure, since it is the state of being at peace with what one has, rather than constantly seeking more. Confidence, described as the “greatest friend,” is essential in navigating life with clarity and purpose, while non-being, or living in accordance with the natural flow of life, is identified as the source of the greatest joy, as it frees one from the burdens of attachment, expectation, and striving.
In modern life, this quote speaks to the importance of inner peace and personal well-being. Health is often taken for granted until it is compromised, yet it is the key to living fully and pursuing other goals. Similarly, contentment is often overlooked in a world that constantly promotes ambition and material gain. Laozi’s words remind us that satisfaction with what we have is more meaningful than the endless chase for more. Confidence, in the form of self-assurance and inner strength, enables individuals to face challenges with resilience, while the concept of non-being aligns with the Daoist practice of wu wei, or “non-action,” where one allows things to unfold naturally without forcing or overexerting control.
This wisdom is particularly relevant today as many individuals struggle with stress, overwork, and societal pressures. Laozi suggests that by cultivating health, contentment, confidence, and a sense of flow with the universe, we can achieve a deeper sense of joy and peace. Health and contentment free us from the need for constant acquisition, confidence helps us navigate life with ease, and embracing non-being encourages us to find happiness not in the external world but in the quiet acceptance of the present moment.
