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To attain knowledge, add things everyday. To attain wisdom, remove things everyday.

This quote is attributed to Lao Tzu, an ancient Chinese philosopher. It highlights the difference between knowledge and wisdom and offers guidance on how to attain wisdom.

In this quote, “knowledge” refers to the accumulation of information, facts, and understanding about various subjects. It implies the continuous process of adding new information and expanding one’s understanding of the world. Knowledge is often associated with learning, education, and acquiring expertise in different areas.

On the other hand, “wisdom” goes beyond knowledge and reflects a deeper level of understanding and insight. It involves discernment, good judgement, and the ability to make thoughtful decisions and choices. Wisdom is often gained through experience, reflection, and self-awareness.

The quote suggests that to attain knowledge, one should consistently seek new information and learn from various sources. This can involve reading books, engaging in discussions, attending lectures, or exploring new ideas and perspectives. By continually adding to our knowledge, we expand our understanding of the world and become more informed individuals.

However, attaining wisdom requires a different approach. It involves not just adding new information but also letting go of unnecessary beliefs, biases, and attachments. It is about simplifying, refining, and distilling our knowledge to its core essence. This process of removing unnecessary things from our minds allows us to gain clarity, insight, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

In other words, wisdom is not solely about what we know but also about how we use that knowledge and how we apply it in practical situations. It involves the ability to extract the essential principles and values from our accumulated knowledge and to discern which information is truly valuable and relevant.

By constantly evaluating and removing unnecessary elements, we can gain a clearer perspective, make better decisions, and cultivate a more balanced and insightful approach to life. The quote encourages us to embrace a process of continuous learning while also practising discernment and letting go of the non-essential, ultimately leading to the development of wisdom.