In this chapter, Laozi proposes three profoundly important principles for guiding one’s conduct in life and interacting with others.
Who knows his manhood’s strength,
Yet still his female feebleness maintains;
As to one channel flow the many drains,
All come to him, yea, all beneath the sky.
Thus he the constant excellence retains;
The simple child again, free from all stains.Who knows how white attracts,
Yet always keeps himself within black’s shade,
The pattern of humility displayed,
Displayed in view of all beneath the sky;
He in the unchanging excellence arrayed,
Endless return to man’s first state has made.
Who knows how glory shines,
Yet loves disgrace, nor ever for it is pale;
Behold his presence in a spacious vale,
To which men come from all beneath the sky.
The unchanging excellence completes its tale;
The simple infant man in him we hail.The unwrought material, when divided and distributed, forms vessels. The sage, when employed, becomes the Head of all the Officers (of government); and in his greatest regulations he employs no violent measures.
- Though powerful and capable of defeating opponents through force, one should appear gentle and dedicate oneself to resolving contradictions through peaceful means.
- Though perceiving all things with acute clarity, one should skillfully conceal insight and feign ignorance.
- Though occupying an honorable position, one should relinquish status and behave with humility in dealings with others.
All things are formed through the workings of the Dao, each endowed with unique characteristics. The Dao nurtures and generates all things to manifest their functions.
The Sage respects the inherent qualities of all beings, allowing each to fulfill its role without forcibly severing their organic connections or harming the integrity of existence.
By adhering to these principles—coordinating and holistically utilizing natural resources without mechanically fragmenting them—one attains wisdom and virtuous governance.
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