Chapter 69 employs military metaphors to unveil the Daoist philosophy of ‘retreating to advance’ and ‘softness overcoming hardness’. Lao Tzu first references ancient military wisdom: ‘I dare not take the initiative but prefer to respond; I dare not advance an inch but prefer to withdraw a foot’. This emphasizes avoiding provocation, resisting rash aggression, and instead retreating strategically to observe the situation, gather strength, and act with hidden intent. Actions remain concealed, leaving no trace for the enemy to follow—appearing as non-action, yet embodying the stratagem of ‘formlessness conquering form’ .
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