Chapter 36

1. When one is about to take an inspiration, he is sure to make a (previous) expiration; when he is going to weaken another, he will first strengthen him; when he is going to overthrow another, he will first have raised him up; when he is going to despoil another, he will first have made gifts to him:--this is called 'Hiding the light (of his procedure).'

Commentary

Source: Editorial Summary

This chapter explores cor e 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. That which is about to contract has surely been expanded. That which is about to weaken has surel y been strengthened. That which is about to fall has surely been raised. That which is about to be despoiled has surely been endowed. 2. This is an explanation of the secret that the tender and the weak conquer the hard and the strong. 3. As the fish should not escape from the deep, so with the country's sharp tools the people should not become acquainted. Next: 37. Administration of Government | ...