Avatar: The Last Airbender is as critically acclaimed as it is beloved by fans and deserves nothing less than universal praise. Viewers of all ages can learn something from this profound series, whether they're children watching it for the first time or adults rewatching it for the umpteenth time.

Throughout its three seasons, Avatar has taught fans many lessons about life, and one of the main sources of wisdom was undoubtedly Zuko's Uncle Iroh. His words of wisdom are a staple of Avatar and the show simply wouldn't be what it is without this lovable old man and his unparalleled insight.

Updated on January 24, 2024 by Hannah Grimes: Uncle Iroh gives more advice than any other character in Avatar: The Last Airbender, changing and believing in almost everyone he comes across. Iroh's lived through good and bad times, giving him a wise perspective that he uses to help guide others. We've updated this list to include a few more inspirational Iroh quotes while updating this list to fall in line with updated CBR standards.

29 “The Key To Wisdom And Tea Is Proper Aging.”

Avatar: The Last Airbender S2E20, "The Crossroads Of Destiny"

The key to wisdom and tea is proper aging.

Iroh is known for his sage advice and wise witticisms. As the oldest, most frequently occurring character, Iroh represents an aging generation and seems to be doing well for himself. When Avatar Aang comments on his age and his wisdom, Iroh responds with the above quote.

With this statement, Uncle Iroh accepts Aang's compliments, but also implies that he wasn’t always the wise Uncle the characters and fans now know him to be. Like anything, it takes time to become good at any skill. Whether it's knowledge or simply how to brew tea, time and patience are the keys to achieving any goal.

28 "We've Been Down This Road Before."

Avatar: The Last Airbender S1E01, "The Boy In The Iceberg"

We've been down this road before, Prince Zuko. I don't want you to get excited over nothing.

Iroh follows his nephew when Zuko is banished from the Fire Nation, and while Iroh doesn't directly stop Zuko from pursuing the Avatar, he often encourages Zuko to slow down and enjoy life instead. Two and a half years after originally being banished, Zuko sees a bright light that he believes signals the Avatar, but Iroh tells his excited nephew to calm down in this quote.

Zuko is relentless in his quest to restore his honor, and it's always Iroh by his side setting things right when Zuko gets ahead of himself. After telling his nephew not to get overexcited, he ushers Zuko over for a cup of calming tea.

27 “...There Is A Simple Honor In Poverty."

Avatar: The Last Airbender S2E05, "Avatar Day"

To be honest, the best tea tastes delicious whether it comes in a porcelain pot or a tin cup...There is a simple honor in poverty.

Although he grew up in great privilege, Iroh tries to remain humble. Iroh now views life more kindly and is thankful for all the small joys around him, despite his checkered past. However, his greatest joy is a good cup of tea.

What this Uncle Iroh quote implies is that the best things in life can be found anywhere. Whether rich or poor, general or merchant, people can find happiness in their lives. It may not be extravagant happiness, but that doesn’t matter as long as a person feels fulfilled.

26 “Many Things That Seem Threatening In The Dark...”

The Legend Of Korra S2E10, "A New Spiritual Age"

Many things that seem threatening in the dark become welcoming when we shine light on them.

Although Avatar Korra is older and more professionally trained, she faces a lot more personal hurdles than Aang did. Korra feels lost in a world that seems beyond the Avatar, and she feels like each new challenge is insurmountable. Thankfully, she meets a familiar face when she becomes lost in the Spirit World.

Uncle Iroh sees how distressed Korra is and reassures her that not everything is as daunting as it seems. Iroh shows Korra that a little bit of light, whether it’s help from a friend or new clarity, can go a long way toward overcoming life’s struggles. Iroh was that light for Zuko, and now he offers that same light to Korra.

25 “Follow Your Passion And Life Will Reward You”

Avatar: The Last Airbender S2E19, "The Guru"

Follow your passion and life will reward you.

Iroh used to be a general in the Fire Nation Army. He was responsible for much suffering and famously helmed the first siege of Ba Sing Se. Yet, it isn’t until he is older, living as a humble tea servant that he seems to find true happiness.

Although this quote is directed toward a stranger wanting to change his circumstances, Iroh’s quote can be applied to anyone. When people love what they do, or leave time to do what they love, the happier they will be. Following one’s passion — even if it's just a hobby — makes life worth living.

24 “...Your Own Ship Has Set Sail”

Avatar: The Last Airbender S1E09, "The Waterbending Scroll"

Are you so busy fighting you cannot see your own ship has set sail?

Although Iroh meant this quote in the literal sense, it can still be applied to life in general. Oftentimes, people find themselves so caught up in disagreeing with other people’s opinions that they forget to find peace in themselves.

The pirates and Zuko both show that blind rage can shut out important people and events. If either the captain or Zuko had listened to Iroh, they might have stopped their ships from being stolen. With this accidental proverb, Iroh proves once again that peace and listening to others should take priority over anger.

23 “Today, Destiny Is Our Friend. I Know It.”

Avatar: The Last Airbender S3E19, "Sozin’s Comet Part 2: The Old Masters"

Today, Destiny is our friend. I know it.

As the Gaang and the White Lotus prepare for the final battle that will decide the fate of the world, they seem on edge. However, this one quote from Iroh inspires everyone to feel more confident in the ending’s outcome.

Whenever people face a big challenge, it's important for them to feel like the universe is on their side. Even if the battle had gone a different way, Iroh’s words still would have helped each of them feel more self-assured heading into battle. Good morale is a key component to any ragtag team, but especially one trying to bring peace and balance to the world.

22 "The Only Thing Better Than Finding Something You're Looking For..."

Avatar: The Last Airbender S1E09, "The Waterbending Scroll"

The only thing better than finding something you're looking for is finding something you weren't looking for at a great bargain!

Some of Iroh's wisest quotes also have small bits of humor thrown in, which reflects his more easygoing personality. At first, it seems like Iroh lost the lotus tile he uses for Pai Sho, leading Iroh and Zuko to the markets. He doesn't find what he's looking for but walks away satisfied with other purchases instead of being upset and says so in this quote.

Later, Iroh reveals to Zuko that the tile was in his sleeve the entire time, wearing a wide smile. If they hadn't gone to the markets, Zuko would've caught up with the Avatar, making this one of many times Iroh indirectly steers Zuko away from his goal for his nephew's sake.

21 "There Is Nothing Wrong With A Life Of Peace And Prosperity."

Avatar: The Last Airbender S2E17, "Lake Laogai"

There is nothing wrong with a life of peace and prosperity. I suggest you think about what it is you want from your life.

Uncle Iroh was the crown prince of the Fire Nation, so his entire life was spent fighting a raging war for his homeland's dominance. And yet, he knew the value of peace even though Iroh didn't often get the opportunity to experience it.

This Uncle Iroh quote, intended for his nephew, was an acknowledgment that Zuko didn't have to spend his entire life fighting if he didn't want to. He could walk away from the battle and allow someone else to pick it up. The idea that the fight can be too much and one can walk away isn't a concept usually addressed by children's television.

20 "History Is Not Always Kind To Its Subjects."

Avatar: The Last Airbender S1E19, "The Siege Of The North Part 1"

Be careful what you wish for, Admiral. History is not always kind to its subjects.

When some people think of phrases associated with history, they remember that "history is written by the victors." While that overarching feeling is true, with this quote, Uncle Iroh also knew that just because someone was victorious didn't mean the future would look kindly on them.

There was no line that Admiral Zhao wouldn't cross in his quest for power, and to make himself valuable to the Fire Lord. Uncle Iroh, for all the good he did during the series, behaved similarly during his youth. He knew that history would not consider many of his accomplishments in a positive light.

19 "At My Age, There Is Only One Big Surprise Left..."

Avatar: The Last Airbender S1E15, "Bato Of The Water Tribe"

At my age, there is only one big surprise left, and I'd just as soon leave it a mystery.

Uncle Iroh makes his peace with the prospect of his inevitable death long before he actually dies. His death takes place somewhere between his nephew's ascension to the throne and Avatar Korra's birth.

Lu-ten's untimely demise forces Iroh to realize the value of life, which is when he begins to take his duties a lot less seriously. This Uncle Iroh quote proves that he doesn't mind dying, but he would prefer it to come as a surprise, so he doesn't spend his last moments alive in unnecessary fear.

18 "A Moment Of Quiet Is Good For Your Mental Well-Being."

Avatar: The Last Airbender S01E16, "Bato Of The Water Tribe"

A moment of quiet is good for your mental well-being.

At the beginning of "Bato of the Water Tribe," Iroh and Zuko are having tea while Iroh remarks on the benefits of a relaxing, quiet moment. It's short-lived, as the ship shaking causes a frustrated Zuko to abandon his tea for action, but this Uncle Iroh quote is one that his nephew should have heeded more often.

Later in this episode, Iroh alludes to being close to death, which makes this earlier quote hit even harder. People never know how much time they have left, and one's final moment to relax could be right around the corner, so it's always worth taking a moment to enjoy life and take care of oneself.

17 "...Help Someone Else."

The Legend of Korra S2E10, "A New Spiritual Age"

Sometimes, the best way to solve your own problems is to help someone else.

Though Uncle Iroh was the one who said this line, the sentiment played out numerous times in the series itself. Aang gained allies with every person he helped, Zuko learned about himself when he helped a family persecuted by soldiers-turned-bullies, Katara grew more adept at her abilities as she trained Aang, and Sokka grew as a leader when he helped the Kyoshi warriors.

Iroh even made this quote come to life when he decided to help liberate Ba Sing Se, thereby earning redemption for his former mistakes. The series made it clear that every time someone helped another, their actions would ultimately have far-reaching consequences.

16 “Protection And Power Are Overrated."

Avatar: The Last Airbender S2E20, "The Crossroads Of Destiny"

Protection and power are overrated. I think you are very wise to choose happiness and love.

As Iroh and Aang descend into the crystal catacombs of Ba Sing Se, the young Avatar wonders if he made the right decision to protect Katara over learning his chakras under the guidance of Guru Pathik. As a 12-year-old, Aang isn't exactly emotionally or philosophically mature at this point.

Iroh informs Aang that love and happiness are far superior to power and protection, proceeding to describe life as a dangerous, albeit extremely rewarding, journey. The older man has loved and lost enough to comprehend the importance of moving forward, regardless of the destination.

15 "Admit Mistakes When They Occur..."

Avatar: The Last Airbender S2E15, "Tales Of Ba Sing Se"

It is usually best to admit mistakes when they occur, and to see to restore honor.

Prince Zuko was on a quest to restore his honor — however, if he had listened to his Uncle Iroh, he would have known that his way of doing things was wrong. Instead of charging forward, feeling crushed under the weight of one's mistakes, this Uncle Iroh quote urges people to admit their mistakes immediately, to heal and restore honor in a healthy way.

In Zuko's case, he would have been much better off if he had acknowledged his transgressions at the beginning and worked towards restoring his honor. Instead, the banished prince spends nearly four years struggling to capture the Avatar in a futile bid to please his father.

14 "...It May Not Be For The Reasons You Imagine."

Avatar: The Last Airbender S2E01, "The Avatar State"

I care about you! And if Ozai wants you back, well, I think it may not be for the reasons you imagine.

In "The Avatar State," Azula tells Zuko that their Father regrets banishing him and wants his son to come home. Zuko immediately believes this means he's been redeemed, excitedly wanting to go home, but Iroh knows better. He warns Zuko in this Uncle Iroh quote that, if Ozai wants him back, it's likely not for anything positive.

Zuko doesn't take kindly to this, and it's understandable why — to be redeemed and honored by his father is all he's wanted for years — but Iroh knows not to hide the truth just to spare Zuko's feelings. Even after being badmouthed by Zuko, Iroh still follows him home, to try to keep him from getting into too much trouble on his own.

13 “Power In Firebending Comes From The Breath...”

Avatar: The Last Airbender S1E01, "The Boy In The Iceberg"

Power in firebending comes from the breath, not the muscle.

Breathing is one of the most important components of any exercise, and the same applies to all four bending arts. Iroh explains that the breath contains energy and power that can be channeled through the body far more effectively than brute force is capable of.

This Uncle Iroh quote is particularly impactful because Zuko firmly believes that physical strength and Firebending are directly proportional, a notion that nearly gets him killed on many occasions. This is a sentiment acquired through his father Ozai, as well as his sister Azula. Thankfully, Iroh teaches Zuko a better way to channel his flames.

12 "Draw Wisdom From Many Different Places."

Avatar: The Last Airbender S2E09, "Bitter Work"

It is important to draw wisdom from many different places.

In the Season 2 episode "Bitter Work", Iroh decides to teach Zuko how to use his bending abilities to create lightning. Although Zuko complains, stating that he wants to learn how to generate lightning, Iroh insists that his method is superior.

Iroh also gives Zuko an important lesson on keeping an open mind and understanding others, which will consequently help him become more mature. Iroh implies that those who work on comprehending different cultures, beliefs, philosophies, and ways of life would automatically enrich their own understanding of the world and become wiser.

11 "Who Are You And What Do You Want?"

Avatar: The Last Airbender S2E17, "Lake Laogai"

It's time for you to look inward and start asking yourself the big question: Who are you, and what do you want?

After his banishment, Zuko is hell-bent on fulfilling his destiny and restoring his honor. In his mind, the only way to achieve his goals is by successfully tracking and capturing the Avatar. Luckily, Zuko has a voice of reason to guide him and make him realize that his destiny doesn’t necessarily put him on the path of revenge and retribution.

Iroh wants Zuko to live life on his own terms – to be the person he wants to be and do the things he wants to do. As the older man puts it: “It’s time for you to look inward and start asking yourself the big question: who are you and what do you want?”

10 "If You Look For The Dark, That Is All You Will Ever See."

The Legend Of Korra S2E10, "A New Spiritual Age"

If you look for the dark, that is all you will ever see.

This quote is one of Iroh's darker pieces of advice. It refers to navigating one's inner world. It means that searching for the light, for an answer, for something tangible and hopeful, will help one orient themselves on their personal journeys.

Unfortunately, it also means that people who are unable to perceive the light — in other words, those clouded by thoughts of anger and despair — may never find their way out of the metaphorical darkness. It takes a long time for Iroh's sage words to get through to Zuko, but they eventually do.