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The transformation of Tau

"Tau produced one (unity); one (unity) produced two (duality); two (duality) produced three (trinity); and three (trinity) produced all things. Everything carries the yin (shady, dark, still, deathlike, etc.) on its back; and the yang (bright, active, lively, etc.) on its front; and is harmonized by an intermediate (immaterial) breath. What people dislike is orphanage, and loneliness, and a wheelless carriage (incompleteness); and yet kings and nobles appropriate these terms. For things, when they are diminished, will increase; and, when they are increased, will diminish. What people (by their conduct) teach, I also teach them. Those (for instance) who are violent and obstinate do not die a natural death. I would use such as the best instructors."

Author

Lao Tzu

All Translations

English

"Tau produced one (unity); one (unity) produced two (duality); two (duality) produced three (trinity); and three (trinity) produced all things. Everything carries the yin (shady, dark, still, deathlike, etc.) on its back; and the yang (bright, active, lively, etc.) on its front; and is harmonized by an intermediate (immaterial) breath. What people dislike is orphanage, and loneliness, and a wheelless carriage (incompleteness); and yet kings and nobles appropriate these terms. For things, when they are diminished, will increase; and, when they are increased, will diminish. What people (by their conduct) teach, I also teach them. Those (for instance) who are violent and obstinate do not die a natural death. I would use such as the best instructors."

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