Act in accordance with the principles of Dao, and one may traverse the world unimpeded. Wherever they go, they encounter no obstacles but bring peace and tranquility. Yet when spoken, the Dao seems plain and flavorless. It remains invisible to the eye, inaudible to the ear, and to ordinary people, not easily applied in practice. Thus they delight in offering bait or grace to wayfarers, creating opportunities to preach the Dao.
To him who holds in his hands the Great Image (of the invisible Dao), the whole world repairs. Men resort to him, and receive no hurt, but (find) rest, peace, and the feeling of ease.
Music and dainties will make the passing guest stop (for a time). But though the Dao as it comes from the mouth, seems insipid and has no flavour, though it seems not worth being looked at or listened to, the use of it is inexhaustible.
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