Chapter 39

1. The things which from of old have got the One (the Tao) are-- Heaven which by it is bright and pure; Earth rendered thereby firm and sure; Spirits with powers by it supplied; Valleys kept full throughout their void All creatures which through it do live Princes and kings who from it get The model which to all they give. All these are the results of the One (Tao).

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. From of old these things have obtained oneness: 2. "Heaven by oneness becometh pure. Earth by one ness can endure. Minds by oneness souls procure. Valleys by oneness repletion secure. p. 101 "All creatures by oneness to life have been called. And kings were by oneness as models installed." Such is the result of oneness. 3. "Were heaven not pure it might be rent. Were earth not stable it might be bent. Were minds not ensouled they'd be impotent. Were valleys not filled they'd soon be spent. Whe...