Chapter 45

1. Who thinks his great achievements poor Shall find his vigour long endure. Of greatest fulness, deemed a void, Exhaustion ne'er shall stem the tide. Do thou what's straight still crooked deem; Thy greatest art still stupid seem, And eloquence a stammering scream.

Commentary

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. "Greatest perfection imperfect will be, But its work ne'er waneth. Greatest fulness is vacuity, I ts work unexhausted remaineth." 2. "Straightest lines resemble curves; Greatest skill like a tyro serves; Greatest eloquence stammers and swerves." 3. Motion conquers cold. Quietude p. 106 conquers heat. Purity and clearness are the world's standard. Next: 46. Moderation of Desire | « Previous: The Canon of Reason and Virtue (Tao te Ching): The Old Ph... Next: The Canon of Reason and Virtue (Tao t...