C O N T E N T S INTRODUCTORY NOTES: PREFACE BIBLIOGRAPHY & REFERENCES ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS INTRODUCTION NOTES ON THE INTERPRETATION TRANSLATION OF LAO TZU'S TAO TE CHING 1. THE EMBODIMENT OF TAO 2. LETTING GO OF COMPARISONS 3. WITHOUT SEEKING ACCLAIM 4. THE UNFATHOMABLE TAO 5. WITHOUT INTENTION 6. COMPLETION 7. SHEATHING THE LIGHT 8. THE WAY OF WATER 9. WITHOUT EXTREMES 10. CLEANING THE DARK MIRROR 11. THE UTILITY OF NON-EXISTENCE 12. THE REPRESSION OF DESIRES 13. UNMOVED AND UNMOVING 14. EXPERIENCING THE MYSTERY 15. THE MANIFESTATION OF THE TAO IN MAN 16. RETURNING TO THE ROOT 17. LEADERSHIP BY EXCEPTION 18. THE DECAY OF ETHICS 19. RETURNING TO NATURALNESS 20. BEING DIFFERENT FROM ORDINARY MEN 21. FINDING THE ESSENCE OF TAO 22. YIELDING TO MAINTAIN INTEGRITY 23. ACCEPTING THE IRREVOCABLE 24. EXCESS 25. THE CREATIVE PRINCIPLE OF TAO 26. CENTRING 27. FOLLOWING THE TAO 28. RETAINING INTEGRITY 29. TAKING NO ACTION 30. A CAVEAT AGAINST VIOLENCE 31. MAINTAINING PEACE 32. IF THE TAO WERE OBSERVED 33. WITHOUT FORCE: WITHOUT PERISHING 34. WITHOUT CONTRIVING 35. THE BENEVOLENT HOST 36. OVERCOMING 37. THE EXERCISE OF LEADERSHIP 38. THE CONCERNS OF THE GREAT 39. SUFFICIENCY AND QUIETNESS 40. BEING AND NOT BEING 41. SAMENESS AND DIFFERENCE 42. THE TRANSFORMATIONS OF THE TAO 43. AT ONE WITH THE TAO 44. SUFFICIENCY 45. CHANGES 46. MODERATING DESIRE AND AMBITION 47. DISCOVERING THE DISTANT 48. FORGETTING KNOWLEDGE 49. THE VIRTUE OF RECEPTIVITY 50. THE VALUE SET ON LIFE 51. THE NOURISHMENT OF THE TAO 52. RETURNING TO THE SOURCE 53. EVIDENCE 54. CULTIVATING INSIGHT 55. MYSTERIOUS VIRTUE 56. VIRTUOUS PASSIVITY 57. SIMPLIFICATION 58. TRANSFORMATIONS ACCORDING TO CIRCUMSTANCES 59. GUARDING THE TAO 60. RULING 61. HUMILITY 62. SHARING THE TREASURE 63. BEGINNING AND COMPLETING 64. STAYING WITH THE MYSTERY 65. VIRTUOUS GOVERNMENT 66. LEADING FROM BEHIND 67. THE THREE PRECIOUS ATTRIBUTES 68. WITHOUT DESIRE 69. THE USE OF THE MYSTERIOUS TAO 70. HIDDEN IDENTITY 71. WITHOUT SICKNESS 72. LOVING THE SELF 73. ACTING WITH A SUFFICIENCY 74. USURPING THE TAO 75. INJURING THROUGH GREED 76. AGAINST TRUSTING IN STRENGTH 77. THE WAY OF THE TAO 78. SINCERITY 79. FULFILLING ONE'S OBLIGATIONS 80. STANDING ALONE 81. MANIFESTING SIMPLICITY THE TAO AND ITS NAME 1. Naming things enables us to differentiate between them, but names are words, and words easily give rise to confusion. They do not replace the thing or direct experience of the thing which they name, but only represent or describe it. Consider a thing such as a strawberry. If we wish to find the word 'strawberry', we look in a dictionary; if we wish to find a description of a strawberry, we look in an encyclopaedia. But if we are hungry, we do not go to the library, but to the field where fine strawberries may be found. If we do not know where there is such a field, we might seek guidance as to where fine strawberries may be found. A book on the Tao is like such a guide. It can point us in the direction of the strawberry patch, but cannot provide the fruit itself. It can give an idea of the taste of Tao, but of itself, has no taste to compare with direct experience of the Tao. Consider now three things: There is the universal principle which enables all things to be, and to flourish naturally; there is the name 'Tao', by which that universal principle is known; and there are words which describe the manifestations of the Tao. Even the name 'Tao' is only a convenience, and should not be confused with the universal principle which bears that name, for such a principle embraces all things, so cannot be accurately named nor adequately described. This means that Tao cannot be understood, for it is infinite, whereas the mind of man is finite, and that which is finite cannot encompass that which is infinite. Although we cannot understand Tao, we are not prevented from having knowledge of it, for understanding stems from one of the two forms of knowledge. It stems from that which is called cognitive knowledge, the knowledge born of words and numbers, and other similar devices. The other form of knowledge, conative knowledge, needs no words or other such devices, for it is the form of knowledge born of direct personal experience. So it is that conative knowledge is also known as experiential knowledge. Cognitive and experiential knowledge both have their roots in reality, but reality is complex, and complexity is more of a barrier to cognitive knowledge than it is to experiential knowledge, for when we seek cognitive knowledge of a thing, that is, understanding of it, the knowledge we gain of that thing is understanding only of its manifestations, which is not knowledge of the thing itself. We may seek to understand a thing, rather than to experience it, because, in a world beset with man made dangers, it is frequently safer to understand than to experience. Tao is not man made, and there is nothing in it to fear. So it is that we may experience Tao without fear. When we cease to seek cognitive knowledge, that is, cease to seek understanding of a thing, we can gain experiential knowledge of that thing. This is why it is said that understanding Tao is not the same as knowing Tao; that understanding Tao is only to know that which it manifests, and that knowing Tao is to be one with the universal principal which is Tao. This is to say that knowledge of Tao is not the same as understanding Tao. To know Tao is to experience both Tao and the manifestations of that universal principle. As human beings, we are born as manifestations of Tao. If this seems complex, the reason is because Tao is both simple and complex. It is complex when we try to understand it, and simple when we allow ourselves to experience it. Trying to understand Tao is like closing the shutters of a window before looking for a shadow. We might close the shutters to prevent anyone from discovering our treasure, but the same shutters prevent the moonlight from entering the room. All there is in the room is darkness, and in total darkness we cannot find the shadow, no matter how hard or diligently we seek. We call one thing a shadow, and another darkness, but the shadow is darkness, and the darkness shadow, for in reality, both darkness and shadow are absence of light, yet we call one shadow and the other darkness. The shadow is darkness in the midst of light, but within total darkenss, the shadow seems to disappear, for darkness is a shadow within shadows. We may think that the shadow has been destroyed when all light is removed, but it has not been wiped away; in reality it has grown, but we need light even to see that form of darkenss which we call a shadow. Such is the pursuit of the universal priciple called Tao, that if we seek to understand it, we prevent the very means by which it may be found, for the only way in which we might find Tao is through the experience of Tao. We find Tao when we do not seek it, and when we seek it, it leaves us, just as the silver moonlight leaves the room when we close the shutters. We find and know Tao when we allow ourselves to find and know it, just as the moonlight returns when we allow it to return. We do not need to seek Tao as we seek physical treasures such as jade or gold. We do not need to seek Tao as we seek such treasures as fame or titles. We do not need to seek the treasure of Tao, for although the greatest of treasures, it is also the most common. Perhaps it is bacause it is so common that so few men find it; they seek it only in mysterious and secret places, in chasms and caves, and in the workplace of the alchemist. The Tao is not hidden in these places, and is hidden only from those who frequent and inhabit them, secretively, and with the shutters closed. Just as darkness may be known as the absence of light, so to may light be known as the absence of darkness. When we experience darkness and light as having the same source, we are close to the Tao, for Tao is the source of both darkness and light, just as it is also the source of all other natural things. When we experience ourselves as part of Tao, as a shadow or reflection of the universal principle, we have found it, for it is said that "Experience of Tao is Tao". 1. KNOWLEDGE OF 'THE TAO', AND EXPERIENCE OF THE TAO. There is a way in which we may conduct our lives without regrets, and in such a manner as assists in developing and realizing our individual potential, without harming others, or inhibiting the realization of their potential, and which is beneficial to a healthy society. Such a way of life may of course be conducted without a name, and without description, but in order that others may know of it, and so as to distinguish it from other ways in which life may be conducted, we give it a name, and use words to describe it. When discussing or describing this way in which life may be conducted, rather than refer to it in full, for convenience, we refer to it as 'the way', meaning simply that the discussion is concerned with this particular way, not that it is the only way of conducting one's life. In order that we might distinguish it more easily from other ways, we refer to it also by its original name, which is 'Tao'. By intellectual intent, that is, through thought and words, and by considering ourselves as non-participating observers of this way of life, we may gain knowledge of its manifestations; but it is only through participation that we can actually experience such a way of life for ourselves. Knowledge of anything is not the same as the thing of which we have that knowledge. When we have knowledge of a thing but do not have experience of it, in trying to describe that thing, all we can describe is our knowledge, not the thing itself. Equally, even when we have experience of a thing, all we can convey is knowledge of that experience, not the experience itself. Knowledge and experience are both real, but they are different realities, and their relationship is frequently made complex by what distinguishes them, one from the other. When they are used according to that which is appropriate to the situation, we may develop that way of life which enables us to pass through the barrier of such complexities. We may have knowledge of "Tao", but Tao itself can only be experienced. 2. LETTING GO OF OPPOSITES. It is the nature of the ordinary person, the person who is not yet at one wityh the Tao, to compare the manifestations of the natural qualities possessed by things. Such a person tries to learn of such qualities by distinguishing between their manifestations, and so learns only of their comparative manifestations. So it is that the ordinary person might consider one thing beautiful when compared with another which he considers to be ugly; one thing skillfully made compared with another which he considers badly made. He knows of what he has as a result of knowing what he does not have, and of that which he considers easy through that which he considers difficult. He considers one thing long by comparing it with another thing which he considers short; one thing high and another low. He knows of noise through silence and of silence through noise, and learns of that which leads through that which follows. When such comparisons are made by a sage, that is a person who is in harmony with the Tao, that person is aware of making a judgement, and that judgements are relative to the person who makes them, and to the situation in which they are made, as much as they are relative to that which is judged. Through the experience and knowledge through which he has gained his wisdom, the sage is aware that all things change, and that a judgement which is right in one situation might easily be wrong in another situation. He is therefore aware that he who seems to lead does not always lead, and that he who seems to follow does not always follow. Because of this awareness, the sage frequently seems neither to lead nor follow, and often seems to do nothing, for that which he does is done without guile; it is done naturally, being neither easy nor difficult, not big or small. Because he accomplishes his task and then lets go of it without seeking credit, he cannot be discredited. Thus, his teaching lasts for ever, and he is held in high esteem. 3. WITHOUT SEEKING ACCLAIM. The talented person who is also wise, retains humility, and so does not create rivalry. The person who possesses material things, and who does not boast of his possessions, does much to prevent stealing. Those who are jealous of talents, skills or possessions of others, easily become possessed themselves by envy. The sage is satisfied with a sufficiency; he is not jealous, and so is free of envy. He does not seek fame and titles, but maintains his energy and keeps himself supple. He minimizes his desires, and does not train himself in guile. He thus remains pure at heart. By acting in an uncontrived manner, the harmony of the inner world of his thoughts and the external world of his environment is maintained. He remains at peace with himself. For these reasons, an administration which is concerned with the welfare of those whom it serves, does not encourage the seeking of status and titles; it does not create jealousy and rivalry amongst the people, but ensures that they are able to have a sufficiency, without causing them to become discontent, therefore the members of such an administration do not seek honours for themselves, nor act with guile towards the people. 4. THE UNFATHOMABLE TAO. The mind should not be filled with desires. The individual who is at one with the Tao is aware of the distinction between that which is needed as a sufficiency, and that which is a desire, or merely wanted rather than needed. It is the manner of the Tao that even though continuously used, it is naturally replenished, never being emptied, and never being as full as a goblet which is filled to the brim and therefore spills its fine spring water upon the ground. The Tao therefore does not waste that with which it is charged, yet always remains a source of nourishment for those who are not already so full that they cannot partake of it. Even the finest blade will lose its sharpeness if tempered beyond its mettle. Even the most finely tempered sword is of no avail against water, and will shatter if struck against a rock. A tangled cord is of little use after it has been untangled by cutting it. Just as a fine sword should be used only by an experienced swordsman, intellect should be tempered with experience. By this means, tangled cord may be untangled, and seemingly insoluable problems resolved; colours and hues may be harmonized to create fine paintings, and people enabled to exist in unity with each other because they no longer feel that they exist only in the shadow of the brilliance of others. To conduct oneself without guile is to conduct oneself in a natural manner, and to do this is to be in contact with nature. By maintaining awareness of the way of nature, the wise person becomes aware of the Tao, and so becomes aware that this is how its seemingly unfathomable mysteries may be experienced. 5. TRANQUIL BUT UNCEASING. Those things which are in opposition with each other are not benevolent towards each other, and may even treat each other with contempt or malevolence. Although the creatures which are born of nature may be in opposition with each other, nature itself is in opposition to nothing for there is nothing for it to oppose. It acts without conscious intention, and it is therefore neither deliberately benevolent, contemptuous nor malevolent. In this respect the way of the Tao is the same as the way of nature. Therefore, even when acting in a benevolent manner, the sage does not act from any conscious desire to be benevolent. Through his manner of breathing like a babe, he remains free of conscious desire, and so retains his tranquility. By this means he is empty of desire, and his energy is not drained from him. 2. THE MANIFESTATION OF TAO THROUGH COMPLIMENTARY OPPOSITES All physical things possess certain natural qualities, such as size, shape and colour. Since the universal principle encompasses all things, so it encompasses their natural qualities. Being possessed by all things, natural qualities are general to all things, but in order to relate to a quality, we think of it as it exists relative to a particular thing, and to ourselves. We therefore think of and describe a quality according to how it is manifested through one particular thing compared with another. Thus, we judge one thing to be big, compared with another thing, which we think of as small; one person young, and another old; one sound noisy, and another quiet. Equally, we judge and compare by thinking of the aesthetic quality in terms of its manifestations, 'beautiful' or 'ugly'; morality in terms of good or bad; possession in terms of having or not having; ability in terms of ease or difficulty; length in terms of long or short; height in terms of high or low; sound in terms of noisy or quiet; light in terms of brightness or darkness. Although many of the manifestations which we compare are judged by us to be opposites, one to the other, they are not in opposition, but are complimentary, for even extremes are nothing other than aspects or specific examples of the quality which encompasses them. Both big and small are manifestations or examples of size, young and old are examples of age, noise and quietness are aspects of sound, and brightness and darkness are extremes of light. It is the nature of the ordinary man to compare and judge the manifestations of the naturally occurring qualities inherent in things and in situations. It is not wrong to do this, but we should not delude ourselves into believing that we thereby describe the quality rather than a manifestation of the quality. Whilst all judgements are comparative, a judgement is frequently, if not always, relative to the individual who makes that judgement, and also to the time at which it is made. To the young child, the father may be old, but when the son reaches that age, it is unlikely that he will consider himself old. To the child, the garden fence is high, but when the child grows bigger, the same fence is low. The adult in his physical prime knows that to run ten miles, which is easy at that time, will become more difficult as he becomes older, but that that the patience required to walk will become easier. The sage knows that qualitative judgements, such as old and young, big and small, easy and difficult, or leading and following, relate as much to the person who makes that judgement, as they relate to the thing or action described. Consider a sage and an ordinary man sitting on a hill in the late evening, looking down on the road below. When darkness has fallen, they both see the light of two lanterns approaching, one yellow, the other red, bobbing gently as their bearers pass by. From the positions of the two lights, the ordinary man knows that the bearer of the yellow lantern leads the bearer of the red. As he watches, he sees the red lantern draw level with the yellow, and as they pass beneath him, the red lantern preceding the yellow. The ordinary man wonders why the two lantern bearers do not walk side by side. The sage, who has seen what his companion has seen, thinks it right that the two travellers should do as they have done, to walk side by side through the night, neither leading and neither following the other. The sage is aware that he who seems to lead does not always lead, and that he who seems to follow does not always follow. Because of this, the sage frequently seems neither to lead nor follow, and often seems to do nothing, for that which he does is natural, being neither easy nor difficult, not big or small. Those changes which occur naturally in life, the sage accepts as natural, accepting them as an opportunity for learning, whilst realizing that knowledge is not his possession. Because he knows that the credit for learning is due to the willingness of the student, he teaches without teaching, but by allowing his students to observe the virtue of observing natural qualities, rather than only comparing and judging their manifestations. He does this without seeking credit, and continues without contriving to be given credit. Because of this, his teaching lasts for ever, and he is held in high esteem. The gifted person retains humility and thus prevents jealousy. The person who does not boast of his possessions prevents stealing. Only those who have greed are perplexed by envy. The wise person is therefore satisfied with a sufficiency, and is free of envy. He does not seek fame and titles, but keeps himself strong and supple. He minimizes his desires, and does not train himself in guile. He thus remains pure at heart. By acting in an uncontrived manner he maintains his inner harmony. TRANSLATION 1. THE EMBODIMENT OF TAO Even the finest teaching is not the Tao itself. Even the finest name is insufficient to define it. Without words, the Tao can be experienced, and without a name, it can be known. To conduct one's life according to the Tao, is to conduct one's life without regrets; to realize that potential within oneself which is of benefit to all. Though words or names are not required to live one's life this way, to describe it, words and names are used, that we might better clarify the way of which we speak, without confusing it with other ways in which an individual might choose to live. Through knowledge, intellectual thought and words, the manifestations of the Tao are known, but without such intellectual intent we might experience the Tao itself. Both knowledge and experience are real, but reality has many forms, which seem to cause complexity. By using the means appropriate, we extend ourselves beyond the barriers of such complexity, and so experience the Tao. 2. LETTING GO OF COMPARISONS We cannot know the Tao itself, nor see its qualities direct, but only see by differentiation, that which it manifests. Thus, that which is seen as beautiful is beautiful compared with that which is seen as lacking beauty; an action considered skilled is so considered in comparison with another, which seems unskilled. That which a person knows he has is known to him by that which he does not have, and that which he considers difficult seems so because of that which he can do with ease. One thing seems long by comparison with that which is, comparatively, short. One thing is high because another thing is low; only when sound ceases is quietness known, and that which leads is seen to lead only by being followed. In comparison, the sage, in harmony with the Tao, needs no comparisons, and when he makes them, knows that comparisons are judgements, and just as relative to he who makes them, and to the situation, as they are to that on which the judgement has been made. Through his experience, the sage becomes aware that all things change, and that he who seems to lead, might also, in another situation, follow. So he does nothing; he neither leads nor follows. That which he does is neither big nor small; without intent, it is neither difficult, nor done with ease. His task completed, he then lets go of it; seeking no credit, he cannot be discredited. Thus, his teaching lasts for ever, and he is held in high esteem. 3. WITHOUT SEEKING ACCLAIM By retaining his humility, the talented person who is also wise, reduces rivalry. The person who possesses many things, but does not boast of his possessions, reduces temptation, and reduces stealing. Those who are jealous of the skills or things possessed by others, most easily themselves become possessed by envy. Satisfied with his possessions, the sage eliminates the need to steal; at one with the Tao, he remains free of envy, and has no need of titles. By being supple, he retains his energy. He minimizes his desires, and does not train himself in guile, nor subtle words of praise. By not contriving, he retains the harmony of his inner world, and so remains at peace within himself. It is for reasons such as these, that an administration which is concerned with the welfare of those it serves, does not encourage status and titles to be sought, nor encourage rivalry. Ensuring a sufficiency for all, helps in reducing discontent. Administrators who are wise do not seek honours for themselves, nor act with guile towards the ones they serve. 4. THE UNFATHOMABLE TAO It is the nature of the Tao, that even though used continuously, it is replenished naturally, never being emptied, and never being over-filled, as is a goblet which spills its contents upon the ground. The Tao therefore cannot be said to waste its charge, but constantly remains a source of nourishment for those who are not so full of self as to be unable to partake of it. When tempered beyond its natural state, the finest blade will lose its edge. Even the hardest tempered sword, against water, is of no avail, and will shatter if struck against a rock. When untangled by a cutting edge, the cord in little pieces lies, and is of little use. Just as the finest swordsmith tempers the finest blade with his experience, so the sage, with wisdom, tempers intellect. With patience, tangled cord may be undone, and problems which seem insoluble, resolved. With wise administrators, all can exist in unity, each with the other, because no man need feel that he exists, only as the shadow of his brilliant brother. Through conduct not contrived for gain, awareness of the Tao may be maintained. This is how its mysteries may be found. 5. WITHOUT INTENTION Nature acts without intent, so cannot be described as acting with benevolence, nor malevolence to any thing. In this respect, the Tao is just the same, though in reality it should be said that nature follows the rule of Tao. Therefore, even when he seems to act in manner kind or benevolent, the sage is not acting with such intent, for in conscious matters such as these, he is amoral and indifferent. The sage retains tranquility, and is not by speech or thought disturbed, and even less by action which is contrived. His actions are spontaneous, as are his deeds towards his fellow men. By this means he is empty of desire, and his energy is not drained from him. 6. COMPLETION Like the sheltered, fertile valley, the meditative mind is still, yet retains its energy. Since both energy and stillness, of themselves, do not have form, it is not through the senses that they may be found, nor understood by intellect alone, although, in nature, both abound. In the meditative state, the mind ceases to differentiate between existences, and that which may or may not be. It leaves them well alone, for they exist, not differentiated, but as one, within the meditative mind. 7. SHEATHING THE LIGHT When living by the Tao, awareness of self is not required, for in this way of life, the self exists, and is also non-existent, being conceived of, not as an existentiality, nor as non-existent. The sage does not contrive to find his self, for he knows that all which may be found of it, is that which it manifests to sense and thought, which side by side with self itself, is nought. It is by sheathing intellect's bright light that the sage remains at one with his own self, ceasing to be aware of it, by placing it behind. Detached, he is unified with his external world, by being selfless he is fulfilled; thus his selfhood is assured. 8. THE WAY OF WATER Great good is said to be like water, sustaining life with no conscious striving, flowing naturally, providing nourishment, found even in places which desiring man rejects. In this way it is like the Tao itself. Like water, the sage abides in a humble place; in meditation, without desire; in thoughtfulness, he is profound, and in his dealings, kind. In speech, sincerity guides the man of Tao, and as a leader, he is just. In management, competence is his aim, and he ensures the pacing is correct. Because he does not act for his own ends, nor cause unnecessary conflict, he is held to be correct in his actions towards his fellow man. 9. WITHOUT EXTREMES The cup is easier to hold when not filled to overflowing. The blade is more effective if not tempered beyond its mettle. Gold and jade are easier to protect if possessed in moderation. He who seeks titles, invites his own downfall. The sage works quietly, seeking neither praise nor fame; completing what he does with natural ease, and then retiring. This is the way and nature of Tao. 10. CLEANING THE DARK MIRROR Maintaining unity is virtuous, for the inner world of thought is one with the external world of action and of things. The sage avoids their separation, by breathing as the sleeping babe, and thus maintaining harmony. He cleans the dark mirror of his mind, so that it reflects without intent. He conducts himself without contriving, loving the people, and not interfering. He cultivates without possessing, thus providing nourishment, he remains receptive to changing needs, and creates without desire. By leading from behind, attending to that which must be done, he is said to have attained the mystic state. 11. THE UTILITY OF NON-EXISTENCE Though thirty spokes may form the wheel, it is the hole within the hub which gives the wheel utility. It is not the clay the potter throws, which gives the pot its usefulness, but the space within the shape, from which the pot is made. Without a door, the room cannot be entered, and without windows it is dark. Such is the utility of non-existence. 12. THE REPRESSION OF DESIRES Through sight, the colours may be seen, but too much colour blinds us. Apprehending the tones of sound, too much sound might make us deaf, and too much flavour deadens taste. When hunting for sport, and chasing for pleasure, the mind easily becomes perplexed. He who collects treasures for himself more easily becomes anxious. The wise person fulfills his needs, rather than sensory temptations. 13. UNMOVED AND UNMOVING The ordinary man seeks honour, not dishonour, cherishing success and abominating failure, loving life, whilst fearing death. The sage does not recognise these things, so lives his life quite simply. The ordinary man seeks to make himself the centre of his universe; the universe of the sage is at his centre. He loves the world, and thus remains unmoved by things with which others are concerned. He acts with humility, is neither moved nor moving, and can therefore be trusted in caring for all things. 14. EXPERIENCING THE MYSTERY The Tao is abstract, and therefore has no form, it is neither bright in rising, nor dark in sinking, cannot be grasped, and makes no sound. Without form or image, without existence, the form of the formless, is beyond defining, cannot be described, and is beyond our understanding. It cannot be called by any name. Standing before it, it has no beginning; even when followed, it has no end. In the now, it exists; to the present apply it, follow it well, and reach its beginning. 15. THE MANIFESTATION OF THE TAO IN MAN The sage of old was profound and wise; like a man at a ford, he took great care, alert, perceptive and aware. Desiring nothing for himself, and having no desire for change for its own sake, his actions were difficult to understand. Being watchful, he had no fear of danger; being responsive, he had no need of fear. He was courteous like a visiting guest, and as yielding as the springtime ice. Having no desires, he was untouched by craving. Receptive and mysterious, his knowledge was unfathomable, causing others to think him hesitant. Pure in heart, like uncut jade, he cleared the muddy water by leaving it alone. By remaining calm and active, the need for renewing is reduced. 16. RETURNING TO THE ROOT It is only by means of being that non-being may be found. When society changes from its natural state of flux, to that which seems like chaos, the inner world of the superior man remains uncluttered and at peace. By remaining still, his self detatched, he aids society in its return to the way of nature and of peace. The value of his insight may be clearly seen when chaos ceases. Being one with the Tao is to be at peace, and to be in conflict with it, leads to chaos and dysfunction. When the consistency of the Tao is known, the mind is receptive to its states of change. It is by being at one with the Tao, that the sage holds no prejudice against his fellow man. If accepted as a leader of men, he is held in high esteem. Throughout his life, both being and non-being, the Tao protects him. 17. LEADERSHIP BY EXCEPTION Man cannot comprehend the infinite; only knowing that the best exists, the second best is seen and praised, and the next, despised and feared. The sage does not expect that others use his criteria as their own. The existence of the leader who is wise is barely known to those he leads. He acts without unnecessary speech, so that the people say, "It happened of its own accord". 18. THE DECAY OF ETHICS When the way of the Tao is forgotten, kindness and ethics need to be taught; men learn to pretend to be wise and good. All too often in the lives of men, filial piety and devotion arise only after conflict and strife, just as loyal ministers all too often appear, when the people are suppressed. 19. RETURNING TO NATURALNESS It is better merely to live one's life, realizing one's potential, rather than wishing for sanctification. He who lives in filial piety and love has no need of ethical teaching. When cunning and profit are renounced, stealing and fraud will disappear. But ethics and kindness, and even wisdom, are insufficient in themselves. Better by far to see the simplicity of raw silk's beauty and the uncarved block; to be one with onself, and with one's brother. It is better by far to be one with the Tao, developing selflessness, tempering desire, removing the wish, but being compassionate. 20. BEING DIFFERENT FROM ORDINARY MEN The sage is often envied because others do not know that although he is nourished by the Tao, like them, he too is mortal. He who seeks wisdom is well advised to give up academic ways, and put an end to striving. Then he will learn that yes and no are distinguished only by distinction. It is to the advantage of the sage that he does not fear what others fear, but it is to the advantage of others that they can enjoy the feast, or go walking, free of hindrance, through the terraced park in spring. The sage drifts like a cloud, having no specific place. Like a newborn babe before it smiles, he does not seek to communicate. In the eyes of those who have more than they need, the sage has nothing, and is a fool, prizing only that which of the Tao is born. The sage may seem to be perplexed, being neither bright nor clear, and to himself, sometimes he seems both dull and weak, confused and shy. Like the ocean at night, he is serene and quiet, but as penetrating as the winter wind. 21. FINDING THE ESSENCE OF TAO The greatest virtue is to follow the Tao; how it achieves ! without contriving. The essence of Tao is dark and mysterious, having, itself, no image or form. Yet through its non-being, are found image and form. The essence of Tao is deep and unfathomable, yet it may be known by not trying to know. 22. YIELDING TO MAINTAIN INTEGRITY Yield, and maintain integrity. To bend is to be upright; to be empty is to be full. Those who have little have much to gain, but those who have much may be confused by possessions. The wise man embraces the all encompassing; he is unaware of himself, and so has brilliance; not defending himself, he gains distinction; not seeking fame, he receives recognition; not making false claims, he does not falter; and not being quarrelsome, is in conflict with no one. This is why it was said by the sages of old, "Yield, and maintain integrity; be whole, and all things come to you". 23. ACCEPTING THE IRREVOCABLE Nature's way is to say but little; high winds are made still with the turn of the tide, and rarely last all morning, nor heavy rain, all day. Therefore, when talking, remember also to be silent and still. He who follows the natural way is always one with the Tao. He who is virtuous may experience virtue, whilst he who loses the natural way is easily lost himself. He who is at one with the Tao is at one with nature, and virtue always exists for he who has virtue. To accept the irrevocable is to let go of desire. He who does not have trust in others should not himself be trusted. 24. EXCESS He who stretches beyond his natural reach, does not stand firmly upon the ground; just as he who travels at a speed beyond his means, cannot maintain his pace. He who boasts is not enlightened, and he who is self-righteous does not gain respect from those who are meritous; thus, he gains nothing, and will fall into disrepute. Since striving, boasting and self-righteousness, are all unnecessary traits, the sage considers them excesses, and has no need of them. 25. THE CREATIVE PRINCIPLE OF TAO The creative principle unifies the inner and external worlds. It does not depend on time or space, is ever still and yet in motion; thereby it creates all things, and is therefore called 'the creative and the absolute'; its ebb and its flow extend to infinity. We describe the Tao as being great; we describe the universe as great; nature too, we describe as great, and man himself is great. Man's laws should follow natural laws, just as nature gives rise to physical laws, whilst following from universal law, which follows the Tao. 26. CENTRING The natural way is the way of the sage, serving as his dwelling, providing his centre deep within, whether in his home or journeying. Even when he travels far, he is not separate from his own true nature. Maintaining awareness of natural beauty, he still does not forget his purpose. Although he may dwell in a grand estate, simplicity remains his guide, for he is full aware, that losing it, his roots as well would disappear. So he is not restless, lest he loses the natural way. Similarly, the people's leader is not flippant in his role, nor restless, for these could cause the loss of the roots of leadership. 27. FOLLOWING THE TAO The sage follows the natural way, doing what is required of him. Like an experienced tracker, he leaves no tracks; like a good speaker, his speech is fluent; He makes no error, so needs no tally; like a good door, which needs no lock, he is open when it is required of him, and closed at other times; like a good binding, he is secure, without the need of borders. Knowing that virtue may grow from example, this is the way in which the sage teaches, abandoning no one who stops to listen. Thus, from experience of the sage, all might learn, and so might gain. There is mutual respect twixt teacher and pupil, for, without respect, there would be confusion. 28. RETAINING INTEGRITY Whilst developing creativity, also cultivate receptivity. Retain the mind like that of a child, which flows like running water. When considering any thing, do not lose its opposite. When thinking of the finite, do not forget infinity; Act with honour, but retain humility. By acting according to the way of the Tao, set others an example. By retaining the integrity of the inner and external worlds, true selfhood is maintained, and the inner world made fertile. 29. TAKING NO ACTION The external world is fragile, and he who meddles with its natural way, risks causing damage to himself. He who tries to grasp it, thereby loses it. It is natural for things to change, sometimes being ahead, sometimes behind. There are times when even breathing may be difficult, whereas its natural state is easy. Sometimes one is strong, and sometimes weak, sometimes healthy, and sometimes sick, sometimes is first, and at other times behind. The sage does not try to change the world by force, for he knows that force results in force. He avoids extremes and excesses, and does not become complacent. 30. A CAVEAT AGAINST VIOLENCE When leading by the way of the Tao, abominate the use of force, for it causes resistance, and loss of strength, showing the Tao has not been followed well. Achieve results but not through violence, for it is against the natural way, and damages both others' and one's own true self. The harvest is destroyed in the wake of a great war, and weeds grow in the fields in the wake of the army. The wise leader achieves results, but does not glory in them; is not proud of his victories, and does not boast of them. He knows that boasting is not the natural way, and that he who goes against that way, will fail in his endeavours. 31. MAINTAINING PEACE Weapons of war are instruments of fear, and are abhorred by those who follow the Tao. The leader who follows the natural way does not abide them. The warrior king leans to his right, from whence there comes his generals' advice, but the peaceful king looks to his left, where sits his counsellor of peace. When he looks to his left, it is a time of peace, and when to the right, a time for sorrow. Weapons of war are instruments of fear, and are not favoured by the wise, who use them only when there is no choice, for peace and stillness are dear to their hearts, and victory causes them no rejoicing. To rejoice in victory is to delight in killing; to delight in killing is to have no self-being. The conduct of war is that of a funeral; when people are killed, it is a time of mourning. This is why even victorious battle should be observed without rejoicing. 32. IF THE TAO WERE OBSERVED The Tao is eternal, but does not have fame; like the uncarved block, its worth seems small, though its value to man is beyond all measure. Were it definable, it could then be used to obviate conflict, and the need to teach the way of the Tao; all men would abide in the peace of the Tao; sweet dew would descend to nourish the earth. When the Tao is divided, there is a need for names, for, like the block which is carved, its parts then are seen. By stopping in time from torment and conflict, strife is defeated, and danger averted. The people then seek the wisdom of Tao, just as all rivers flow to the great sea. 33. WITHOUT FORCE: WITHOUT PERISHING Knowledge frequently results from knowing others, but the man who is awakened, has seen the uncarved block. Others might be mastered by force, but to master one's self requires the Tao. He who has many material things, may be described as rich, but he who knows he has enough, and is at one with the Tao, might have enough of material things, and have self-being as well. Will-power may bring perseverance; but to have tranquility is to endure, being protected for all his days. He whose ideas remain in the world, is present for all time. 34. WITHOUT CONTRIVING All things may act, without exclusion, according to the natural way, which fulfills its purpose silently, and with no claim. Being an aspect of natural order, it is not the ruler of any thing, but remains the source of their nourishment. It cannot be seen; it has no intention, but all natural things rely on its presence. When all things return to it, it does not enslave them, so unmanifested, its greatness prevails. Modelling himself upon the Tao, he who is wise, does not contrive, but is content with what he achieves. 35. THE BENEVOLENT HOST The wise man acts at one with the Tao, for he knows it is here that peace is found. It is for this reason that he is sought. Whilst guests enjoy good music and food, as these are supplied by a benevolent host, a description of Tao seems without form, for it cannot be heard and cannot be seen. But when the music and food are all ended, the taste of the Tao still remains. 36. OVERCOMING It is the way of the Tao, that things which expand might also shrink; that he who is strong, will at some time be weak, that he who is raised will then be cast down, and that all men have a need to give, and also have a need to receive. The biggest fish stay deep in the pond, and a country's best weapons should be kept locked away. That which is soft and supple, may overcome the hard and strong. 37. THE EXERCISE OF LEADERSHIP The way of nature is not contrived, yet nothing which is required is left undone. Observing nature, the wise leader knows this, and replaces desire with dispassion, thus saving that energy, otherwise spent, which has not been wasted away. The wise leader knows his actions must be without the use of forced energy. He knows that more is still required, for he also knows that he must act without deliberate intent, of having no intention. To act without contrived intent is to act without contriving, and is the way of nature, and so is the way of the Tao. 38. THE CONCERNS OF THE GREAT A truly good man is unaware of the good deeds he performs. Conversely, a foolish man must try continuously to be good. A good man seems to do little or nought, yet he leaves nothing undone. A foolish man must always strive, whilst leaving much undone. The man who is truly wise and kind leaves nothing to be done, but he who only acts according to his nation's law leaves many things undone. A disciplinarian wanting something done rolls up his sleeves, enforcing it with violence. It may be that goodness still remains, even when the natural way is lost, and that kindness still exists when goodness is forgotten. It may be that justice still remains when the people are no longer kind, and when this is lost, that ritual still remains. However, ritual may be performed only as an act of faith, and may be the beginning of confusion, for even divination and the such are but the flowery trappings of the Tao, and are the beginning of great folly. He who is truly great does not upon the surface dwell, but on what lies beneath. It is said that the fruit is his concern, rather than the flower. Each must decide what it might be he seeks, the flowery trapping, which comes to summer fullness first, or the fruit which is beneath. 39. SUFFICIENCY AND QUIETNESS From the principle which is called the Tao, the sky, the earth, and creativity are one, the sky is clear, the earth is firm, and the spirit of the inner world is full. When the ruler of the land is whole, the nation too is strong, alive and well, and the people have sufficient to meet their earthly needs. When the daytime sky is dark and overcast like night, the nation and its people will surely suffer much. The firmness of the dew filled earth gives it its life; the energy of the inner world prevents its becoming drained of strength; its fullness prevents it running dry. The growth of all things prevents their dying. The work of the leader should ensure the prosperity of the populace. So it is said, "humility is the root of great nobility; the low forms a foundation for the great; and princes consider themselves to be of little worth". Each depends on humility therefore; it is of no advantage to have too much success, so do not sound loudly like jade bells, nor clatter like stone chimes. 40. BEING AND NOT BEING The motion of nature is cyclic and returning. Its way is to yield, for to yield is to become. All things are born of being; being is born of non-being. 41. SAMENESS AND DIFFERENCE On hearing of the Tao, the wise student's practice is with diligence; the average student attends to his practice when his memory reminds him so to do; and the foolish student laughs. But we do well to remember that with no sudden laughter, there would be no natural way. Thus it is said, "There are times when even brightness seems dim; when progress seems like regression; when the easy seems most difficult, and virtue seems empty, inadequate and frail; times when purity seems sullied; when even reality seems unreal, and when a square seems to have corners; when even great talent is of no avail, and the highest note cannot be heard; when the formed seems formless, and when the way of nature is out of sight". Even in such times as these, the natural way still nourishes, that all things may be fulfilled. 42. THE TRANSFORMATIONS OF THE TAO The Tao existed before its name, and from its name, the opposites evolved, giving rise to three divisions, and then to names abundant. These things embrace receptively, achieving inner harmony, and by their unity create the inner world of man. No man wishes to be seen as worthless in another's eyes, but the wise leader describes himself this way, for he knows that one may gain by losing, and lose by gaining, and that a violent man will not die a natural death. 43. AT ONE WITH TAO Only the soft overcomes the hard, by yielding, bringing it to peace. Even where there is no space, that which has no substance enters in. Through these things is shown the value of the natural way. The wise man understands full well, that wordless teaching can take place, and that actions should occur without the wish for self-advancement. 44. SUFFICIENCY A contented man knows himself to be more precious even than fame, and so, obscure, remains. He who is more attached to wealth than to himself, suffers more heavily from loss. He who knows when to stop, might lose, but in safety stays. 45. CHANGES In retrospect, even those accomplishments which seemed perfect when accomplished, may seem imperfect and ill formed, but this does not mean that such accomplishments have outlived their usefulness. That which once seemed full, may later empty seem, yet still be unexhausted. That which once seemed straight may seem twisted when seen once more; intelligence can seem stupid, and eloquence seem awkward; movement may overcome the cold, and stillness, heat, but stillness in movement is the way of the Tao. 46. MODERATING DESIRE AND AMBITION When the way of nature is observed, all things serve their function; horses drawing carts, and pulling at the plough. But when the natural way is not observed, horses are bred for battle and for war. Desire and wanting cause discontent, whilst he who knows sufficiency more easily has what he requires. 47. DISCOVERING THE DISTANT The Tao may be known and observed without the need of travel; the way of the heavens might be well seen without looking through a window. The further one travels, the less one knows. So, without looking, the sage sees all, and by working without self-advancing thought, he discovers the wholeness of the Tao. 48. FORGETTING KNOWLEDGE When pursuing knowledge, something new is acquired each day. But when pursuing the way of the Tao, something is subtracted; less striving occurs, until there is no striving. When effort is uncontrived, nothing is left undone; the way of nature rules by allowing things to take their course, not by contriving to change. 49. THE VIRTUE OF RECEPTIVITY The sage is not mindful for himself, but is receptive to others' needs. Knowing that virtue requires great faith, he has that faith, and is good to all; irrespective of others' deeds, he treats them according to their needs. He has humility and is shy, thus confusing other men. They see him as they might a child, and sometimes listen to his words. 50. THE VALUE SET ON LIFE In looking at the people, we might see that in the space twixt birth and death, one third follow life, and one third death, and those who merely pass from birth to death, are also one third of those we see. He who lives by the way of the Tao, travels without fear of ferocious beasts, and will not be pierced in an affray, for he offers no resistance. The universe is the centre of his world, so in the inner world of he who lives within the Tao, there is no place where death can enter in. 51. THE NOURISHMENT OF THE TAO All physical things arise from the principle which is absolute; the principle which is the natural way. All living things are formed by being, and shaped by their environment, growing if nourished well by virtue; the being from non-being. All natural things respect the Tao, giving honour to its virtue, although the Tao does not expect, nor look for honour or respect. The virtue of the natural way is that all things are born of it; it nourishes and comforts them; develops, shelters and cares for them, protecting them from harm. The Tao creates, not claiming credit, and guides without interfering. 52. RETURNING TO THE SOURCE The virtue of Tao governs its natural way. Thus, he who is at one with it, is one with everything which lives, having freedom from the fear of death. Boasting, and hurrying hither and thither, destroy the enjoyment of a peace filled life. Life is more fulfilled by far, for he who does not have desire, for he does not have desire, has no need of boasting. Learn to see the insignificant and small, grow in wisdom and develop insight, that which is irrevocable, do not try to fight, and so be saved from harm. 53. EVIDENCE When temptation arises to leave the Tao, banish temptation, stay with the Tao. When the court has adornments in profusion, the fields are full of weeds, and the granaries are bare. It is not the way of nature to carry a sword, nor to over-adorn oneself, nor to have more than a sufficiency of fine food and drink. He who has more possessions than he can use, deprives someone who could use them well. 54. CULTIVATING INSIGHT That which is firmly rooted, is not easily torn from the ground; just as that which is firmly grasped, does not slip easily from the hand. The virtue of the Tao is real, if cultivated in oneself; when loved in the family, it abounds; when throughout the village, it will grow; and in the nation, be abundant. When it is real universally, virtue is in all people. All things are microcosms of the Tao; the world a microcosmic universe, the nation a microcosm of the world, the village a microcosmic nation; the family a village in microcosmic view, and the body a microcosm of one's own family; from single cell to galaxy. 55. MYSTERIOUS VIRTUE He who has virtue is like a newborn child, free from attack by those who dwell in the way of nature, the way of the Tao. The bones of the newborn child are soft, his muscles supple, but his grip is firm; he is whole, though not knowing he was born of the creative and receptive way. The way of nature is in the child, so even when he shouts all day, his throat does not grow hoarse or dry. From constancy, there develops harmony, and from harmony, enlightenment. It is unwise to rush from here to there. To hold one's breath causes the body strain; exhaustion follows when too much energy is used, for this is not the natural way. He who is in opposition to the Tao does not live his natural years. 56. VIRTUOUS PASSIVITY Those who know the natural way have no need of boasting, whilst those who know but little, may be heard most frequently; thus, the sage says little, if anything at all. Not demanding stimuli, he tempers his sharpness well, reduces the complex to simplicity, hiding his brilliance, seemingly dull; he settles the dust, whilst in union with all natural things. He who has attained enlightenment (without contriving so to do) is not concerned with making friends, nor with making enemies; with good or harm, with praise or blame. Such detatchment is the highest state of man. 57. SIMPLIFICATION With natural justice, people must be ruled, and if war be waged, strategy and tactics used. To master one's self, one must act without cunning. The greater the number of laws and restrictions, the poorer the people who inhabit the land. The sharper the weapons of battle and war, the greater the troubles besetting the land. The greater the cunning with which people are ruled, the stranger the things which occur in the land. The harder the rules and regulations, the greater the number of those who will steal. The sage therefore does not contrive, in order to bring about reform, but teaches the people peace of mind, in order that they might enjoy their lives. Having no desires, all he does is natural. Since he teaches self-sufficiency, the people who follow him return to a good, uncomplicated life. 58. TRANSFORMATIONS ACCORDING TO CIRCUMSTANCES When the hand of the ruler is light, the people do not contrive, but when the country is severely ruled, the people grow in cunning. The actions of the sage are sharp, but they are never cutting, they are pointed, though never piercing, they are straightforward, not contrived, and not without restraint, brilliant but not blinding. This is the action of the sage, because he is aware that where happiness exists, there is also misery and strife; that where honesty may be found, there is occasion for dishonesty, and that men may be beguiled. The sage knows that no-one can foretell just what the future holds. 59. GUARDING THE TAO By acting with no thought of self-advancement, but with self-restraint, it is possible to lead, and genuinely care for others. This happens by acting virtuously, and leaving nothing to be done. A foundation virtuous and firm, rooted in receptivity, is a prerequisite of good leadership, and for a life both long and strong. He whose virtue knows no limit, is most fitting to lead. His roots are deep, and his life protected by his meditative practice, as the bark protects the tree. 60. RULING To rule a country, one must act with care, as when frying the smallest fish. If actions are approached, and carried out in the natural way, the power of evil is reduced, and so the ruler and the ruled are equally protected. They will not contrive to harm each other, for the virtue of one refreshes the other. 61. HUMILITY A great country remains receptive and still, as does a rich and fertile land. The gentle overcomes the strong with stillness and receptivity. By giving way to the other, one country may conquer another; a small country may submit to a large, and conquer it, though having no arms. Those who conquer must be willing to yield; to yield may be to overcome. A fertile nation may require a greater population, to use its resources to the full, whilst the country without such natural wealth may require them to meet its people's needs. By acting in unity, each may achieve that which it requires. 62. SHARING THE TREASURE The source of all things is in the Tao. It is a treasure for the good, and a refuge for all in need. Whilst praise can buy titles, good deeds gain respect. No man should be abandoned because he has not found the Tao. On auspicious occasions, when gifts are sent, rather than sending horses or jade, send the teaching of Tao. When we first discover the natural way, we are happy to know that our misdeeds are in the past, where they belong, and so are happy to realize that we have found a treasure. 63. BEGINNING AND COMPLETING Act without contriving; work naturally, and taste the tasteless; magnify the small; increase the few, and reward bitterness with care. Seek the simple in the complex, and achieve greatness in small things. It is the way of nature that even difficult things are done with ease, and great acts made up of smaller deeds. The sage achieves greatness by small deeds multiplied. Promises easily made are most easily broken, and acting with insufficient care causes subsequent trouble. The sage confronts problems as they arise, so that they do not trouble him. 64. STAYING WITH THE MYSTERY If problems are accepted, and dealt with before they arise, they might even be prevented before confusion begins, In this way peace may be maintained. The brittle is easily shattered, and the small is easily scattered. Great trees grow from the smallest shoots; a terraced garden, from a pile of earth, and a journey of a thousand miles begins by taking the initial step. He who contrives, defeats his purpose; and he who is grasping, loses. The sage does not contrive to win, and therefore is not defeated; he is not grasping, so does not lose. It is easy to fail when nearing completion, therefore, take care right to the end, not only in the beginning. The sage seeks freedom from desire, not grasping at ideas. He brings men back when they are lost, and helps them find the Tao. 65. VIRTUOUS GOVERNMENT Knowing it is against the Tao to try to enforce learning, the early sages did not contrive to teach the way of the Tao. There are two ways of government. One is to be cunning, to act with guile, and to contrive to cheat the people. When this way is used to rule, the people grow in cunning, and contrive to cheat the ruler. The second way to govern the land, is to do so without contriving. People so governed are truly blessed, for they are governed with virtue, and virtuous government is fair to all, thus leading to unity. 66. LEADING FROM BEHIND The sea is the ruler of river and stream, because it rules from well beneath. The teacher guides his students best, by allowing them to lead. When the ruler is a sage, the people do not feel oppressed; they support the one who rules them well, and never tire of him. He who is non-competitive invites no competition. 67. THE THREE PRECIOUS ATTRIBUTES Those who follow the natural way are different from others in three respects. They have great mercy and economy, and the courage not to compete. From mercy there comes courage; from economy, generosity; and from humility, willingness to lead from behind. It is the way of sickness to shun the merciful, and to acclaim only heroic deeds, to abandon economy, and to be selfish. They are sick, who are not humble, but try always to be first. Only he who is compassionate can show true bravery, and in defending, show great strength. Compassion is the means by which mankind may be guarded and saved, for heaven arms with compassion, those whom it would not see destroyed. 68. WITHOUT DESIRE An effective warrior acts not from nihilistic anger, nor from desire to kill. He who wins should not be vengeful. An employer should have humility. If we wish for peace and unity, our dealings with our fellow man must be without desire for self-advantage, and carried out without contention. 69. THE USE OF THE MYSTERIOUS TAO Arguments may be won by waiting, rather than making an aggresive move; by withdrawing rather than advancing. By moving without appearing to move, by not making a show of strength, but by conserving it well; by capturing without attacking, by being armed, but with no weapons, great battles may be won. Do not underestimate those you enjoin in battle, for this can result in losing what is of greatest value. When a battle is enjoined, by remembering this, the weaker may still win. 70. HIDDEN IDENTITY Though the words of the sage are simple, and his actions easily performed, they are few among many, who can speak or act as a sage. For the ordinary man it is difficult to know the way of a sage, perhaps because his words are from the distant past, and his actions naturally disposed. Those who know the way of the sage are few and far between, but those who treat him with honesty, will be honoured by him and the Tao. He knows he makes no fine display, and wears rough clothes, not finery. It is not in his expectancy of men that they should understand his ways, for he carries his jade within his heart. 71. WITHOUT SICKNESS To acknowledge one's ignorance shows strength of personality, but to ignore wisdom is a sign of weakness. To be sick of sickness is a sign of good health, therefore the wise man grows sick of sickness, and sick of being sick of sickness, 'til he is sick no more. 72. LOVING THE SELF The sage retains a sense of awe, and of propriety. He does not intrude into others' homes; does not harass them, nor interfere without request, unless they damage others. So it is that they return to him. 'Though the sage knows himself he makes no show of it; he has self-respect, but is not arrogant, for he develops the ability to let go of that which he no longer needs. 73. ACTING WITH A SUFFICIENCY A brave man who is passionate will either kill or be killed, but a man who is both brave and still might preserve his own and others' lives. No one can say with certainty, why it is better to preserve a life. The virtuous way is a way to act without contriving effort, yet, without contriving it overcomes. It seldom speaks, and never asks, but is answered without a question. It is supplied with all its needs and is constantly at ease because it follows its own plan which cannot be understood by man. It casts its net both deep and wide, and 'though coarse meshed, it misses nothing in the tide. 74. USURPING THE TAO If the people are not afraid of death, they have no fear of threats of death. If early death is common in the land, and if death is meted out as punishment, the people do not fear to break the law. To be the executioner in such a land as this, is to be as an unskilled carpenter who cuts his hand when trying to cut wood. 75. INJURING THROUGH GREED When taxes are too heavy, hunger lays the people low. When those who govern interfere too much, the people become rebellious. When those who govern demand too much of people's lives, death is taken lightly. When the people are starving in the land, life is of little value, and so is more easily sacrificed by them in overthrowing government. 76. AGAINST TRUSTING IN STRENGTH Man is born gentle and supple. At death, his body is brittle and hard. Living plants are tender, and filled with life-giving sap, but at their death they are withered and dry. The stiff, the hard, and brittle are harbingers of death, and gentleness and yielding are the signs of that which lives. The warrior who is inflexible condemns himself to death, and the tree is easily broken, which ever refuses to yield. Thus the hard and brittle will surely fall, and the soft and supple will overcome. 77. THE WAY OF THE TAO The Tao is as supple as a bow; the high made lower, and the lowly raised. It shortens the string which has been stretched, and lengthens that which has become too short. It is the way of the Tao to take from those who have a surplus to what they need, providing for those without enough. The way of the ordinary person, is not the way of the Tao, for such people take from those who are poor and give to those who are rich. The sage knows that his possessions are none, therefore he gives to the world; without recognition, doing his work. In this way he accomplishes that which is required of him; without dwelling upon it in any way, he gives of his wisdom without display. 78. SINCERITY There is nothing more yielding than water, yet when acting on the solid and strong, its gentleness and fluidity have no equal in any thing. The weak can overcome the strong, and the supple overcome the hard. Although this is known far and wide, few put it into practice in their lives. Although seemingly paradoxical, the person who takes upon himself, the people's humiliation, is fit to rule; and he is fit to lead, who takes the country's disasters upon himself. 79. FULFILLING ONE'S OBLIGATIONS When covenants and bonds are drawn between the people of the land, that they might know their obligations, it is commonplace for many to fail to meet their dues. The sage ensures his dues are met, 'though not expecting others to do the same; in this way he is virtuous. He is without virtue of his own, who asks of others that they fulfil his obligations on his behalf. The way of nature does not impose on matters such as these but stays with the good for ever, and acts as their reward. 80. STANDING ALONE A small country may have many machines, but the people will have no use for them; they will have boats and carriages which they do not use; their armour and weapons are not displayed, for they are serious when regarding death. They do not travel far from home, and make knots in ropes, rather than do much writing. The food they eat is plain and good, and their clothes are simple; their homes are secure, without the need of bolts and bars, and they are happy in their ways. 'Though the cockerels and dogs of their neighbours can be heard not far away, the people of the villages grow old and die in peace. 81. MANIFESTING SIMPLICITY The truth is not always beautiful, nor beautiful words the truth. Those who have virtue, have no need of argument for its own sake, for they know that argument is of no avail. Those who have knowledge of the natural way do not train themselves in cunning, whilst those who use cunning to rule their lives, and the lives of others, are not knowledgeable of the Tao, nor of natural happiness. The sage seeks not to have a store of things or knowledge, for he knows, the less of these he has, the more he has, and that the more he gives, the greater his abundance. The way of the sage is pointed but does not harm. The way of the sage is to work without cunning.