Chapter 72

1. When the people do not fear what they ought to fear, that which is their great dread will come on them.

Commentary

Commentary

This chapter explores cor e themes of the Tao Te Ching, including non-action, harmony with nature, and the power of simplicity.

Philosophical Insight

1. If the people do not fear the dreadful, the great dreadful will come, surely. 2. Let them not dee m their lives narrow. Let them not deem their lot wearisome. When it is not deemed wearisome, then it will not be wearisome. 3. Therefore the holy man knows himself but does not display himself. He p. 125 holds himself dear but does not honor himself. Thus he discards the latter and chooses the former. Next: 73. Daring to Act | « Previous: The Canon of Reason and Virtue (Tao te Ching): The Old Ph....