In the previous chapter, Laozi stated that the Dao is invisible and cannot be perceived through ordinary senses. To help people comprehend it, this chapter continues to elucidate the Dao. Throughout history, cultivating the Dao has been regarded as subtle, mysterious, and inscrutable. Its characteristics can be approximately described as: prudence, deliberation, solemnity, serenity, simplicity, vastness, and integration.
The skilful masters (of the Dao) in old times, with a subtle and exquisite penetration, comprehended its mysteries, and were deep (also) so as to elude men’s knowledge. As they were thus beyond men’s knowledge, I will make an effort to describe of what sort they appeared to be. Shrinking looked they like those who wade through a stream in winter; irresolute like those who are afraid of all around them; grave like a guest (in awe of his host); evanescent like ice that is melting away; unpretentious like wood that has not been fashioned into anything; vacant like a valley, and dull like muddy water. Who can (make) the muddy water (clear)? Let it be still, and it will gradually become clear. Who can secure the condition of rest? Let movement go on, and the condition of rest will gradually arise. They who preserve this method of the Dao do not wish to be full (of themselves). It is through their not being full of themselves that they can afford to seem worn and not appear new and complete.
Each stage of Dao cultivation possesses distinct, progressively evolving traits. Spiritual practice is rooted in the refinement of the heart-mind. Those who master this path achieve:
- Calming the mind amid confusion, restoring purity and freedom from disruptive thoughts.
- Acting decisively during internal stability, allowing new vital impulses to gradually manifest.
To attain this, it is essential to maintain an empty mind free from obsessive fixations: egoic clinging and phenomenal attachment. Only then does the dynamic interplay between stillness and movement arise—a perpetual cycle of continuous refinement that propels spiritual advancement.
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