An ancient Chinese proverb warns: “Fullness begets loss,” a principle that echoes the Daoist axiom from Chapter 40: “The movement of the Dao lies in reversal.” Every phenomenon contains within itself the seeds of its own transformation into its opposite.
It is better to leave a vessel unfilled, than to attempt to carry it when it is full. If you keep feeling a point that has been sharpened, the point cannot long preserve its sharpness. When gold and jade fill the hall, their possessor cannot keep them safe. When wealth and honours lead to arrogancy, this brings its evil on itself. When the work is done, and one’s name is becoming distinguished, to withdraw into obscurity is the way of Heaven.
Just as a vessel overflows when filled to its maximum capacity, and a sharp sword inevitably begins to dull, excessive wealth and lofty social positions are equally destined to dissipate. The essential teaching lies in comprehending this cosmic law and transcending the fear of loss.
In practical life:
- Avoid greed for fame and material gains: “To hoard until overflowing invites calamity”.
- Withdraw timely after success, following the Dao’s mandate: “When the work is accomplished, retire – this is the Way of Heaven”.
- Redirect energy toward new creative cycles, emulating water’s perpetual flow: after irrigating fields, it returns to the ocean to recommence its journey.
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