Meaning: The quote "There is nothing true anywhere, The true is nowhere to be seen; If you say you see the true, This seeing is not the true one" is often misattributed to Abraham Lincoln, although there is no evidence to suggest that he ever said or wrote these words. The quote is actually from the Taoist philosopher Lao Tzu, who lived in ancient China around the 6th century BCE. The quote reflects the essence of Taoist philosophy and invites reflection on the nature of truth and perception.

In this quote, Lao Tzu challenges the conventional understanding of truth by suggesting that it cannot be found externally or perceived through the senses. Instead, he presents the idea that truth is elusive and cannot be grasped through ordinary means of observation or cognition. This concept aligns with the Taoist belief in the ineffable nature of the Tao, or the ultimate reality, which transcends human understanding.

The first line, "There is nothing true anywhere," sets the tone for the rest of the quote by asserting the absence of absolute truth in the external world. This challenges the common assumption that truth can be found in concrete forms or external sources. Lao Tzu suggests that truth is not something that can be located or pinpointed in the physical world.

The second line, "The true is nowhere to be seen," reinforces the idea that truth is not something that can be visually perceived or apprehended through the senses. This challenges the notion that truth can be observed and recognized in the external world. Instead, Lao Tzu implies that truth exists beyond the realm of ordinary perception.

The third line, "If you say you see the true, This seeing is not the true one," further emphasizes the limitations of human perception in grasping the true nature of reality. Lao Tzu suggests that any attempt to claim knowledge or insight into truth through ordinary seeing or cognition is flawed. This challenges the reliability of human perception and understanding when it comes to discerning truth.

Overall, the quote highlights the Taoist view that truth is not something that can be easily comprehended or expressed through conventional language and thought. It encourages a shift in perspective, inviting individuals to look beyond the surface of things and to seek a deeper understanding of reality that transcends the limitations of ordinary perception.

In conclusion, the quote attributed to Lao Tzu challenges our conventional notions of truth and perception. It invites reflection on the elusive nature of truth and the limitations of human perception in grasping it. While often misattributed to Abraham Lincoln, the quote encapsulates the essence of Taoist philosophy and continues to inspire contemplation on the nature of truth and reality.