1. If I were suddenly to become known, and (put into a position
to) conduct (a government) according to the Great Tao, what I should
be most afraid of would be a boastful display.
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. If I have ever so little knowledge, I shall walk in the great Reason. It is but expansion that I must fear. 2. The great Reason is very plain, but people are fond of by-paths. 3. When the palace is very splendid, the fields are very weedy and granaries very empty. 4. To wear ornaments and gay clothes, to carry sharp swords, to be excessive in drinking and eating, to have a redundance of costly articles, this is the pride of robbers. 5. Surely, this is un-Reason. Next: 54. The Cultivation of I...
Commentary
Commentary
Philosophical Insight