1. Man at his birth is supple and weak; at his death, firm and
strong. (So it is with) all things. Trees and plants, in their early
growth, are soft and brittle; at their death, dry and withered.
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. Man during life is tender and delicate. When he dies he is stiff and stark. p. 127 2. The ten thousand things, the grass as well as the trees, while they live are tender and supple. When they die they are rigid and dry. 3. Thus the hard and the strong are the companions of death. The tender and the delicate are the companions of life. Therefore he who in arms is strong will not conquer. 4. When a tree has grown strong it is doomed. 5. The strong and the great stay below. The tender and the de...
Commentary
Commentary
Philosophical Insight