Chapter 68

Humility Leadership

He who in (Tao's) wars has skill Assumes no martial port; He who fights with most good will To rage makes no resort. He who vanquishes yet still Keeps from his foes apart; He whose hests men most fulfil Yet humbly plies his art. Thus we say, 'He ne'er contends, And therein is his might.' Thus we say, 'Men's wills he bends, That they with him unite.' Thus we say, 'Like Heaven's his ends, No sage of old more bright.'

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. He who excels as a warrior is not warlike. He who excels as a fighter is not wrathful. He who exc els in conquering the enemy does not strive. He who excels in employing men is lowly. 2. This is called the virtue of not-striving. This is called utilizing men's p. 123 ability. This is called complying with heaven-since olden times the highest. Next: 69. The Function of the Mysterious | « Previous: The Canon of Reason and Virtue (Tao te Ching): The Old Ph... Next: The Canon of Reason and Virtue ...