1. The partial becomes complete; the crooked, straight; the empty,
full; the worn out, new. He whose (desires) are few gets them; he
whose (desires) are many goes astray.
Commentary
Commentary
Source: Editorial Summary
This chapter explores core themes of the Tao Te Ching, including non-action, harmony with nature, and the power of simplicity.
Philosophical Insight
Source: Paul Carus (1913) - Canon of Reason and Virtue
1. "The crooked shall be straight, Crushed ones recuperate, The empty find their fill. The worn with strength shall thrill; Who little have receive, And who have much will grieve." 2. Therefore The holy man embraces unity and becomes for all the world a model. Not self-displaying he is enlightened; Not self -approving he is distinguished; Not self-asserting he acquires merit; Not self-seeking he gaineth life. Since he does not quarrel, therefore no one in the world can quarrel with him. 3. The s...
Commentary
Commentary
Philosophical Insight