← Back to quotes

65

"Taoist rulers of old Did not enlighten people But left them dull. People are difficult to govern Because they are very clever. Therefore, Ruling through cleverness Leads to rebellion. Not leading through cleverness Brings good fortune. Know these two things And understanding the enduring pattern. Understand the enduring pattern: This is called original Te. Original Te goes deep and far. All things reverse Return And reach the great headwaters."

Author

Lao Tzu

All Translations

English

"Taoist rulers of old Did not enlighten people But left them dull. People are difficult to govern Because they are very clever. Therefore, Ruling through cleverness Leads to rebellion. Not leading through cleverness Brings good fortune. Know these two things And understanding the enduring pattern. Understand the enduring pattern: This is called original Te. Original Te goes deep and far. All things reverse Return And reach the great headwaters."

Loading…
Loading the web debug toolbar…
Attempt #