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73

"Those who are courageous in feats of daring will die because of it; While those whose courage is tempered by prudence will preserve their lives. In these two cases, courage can either put one in harm’s way, or be beneficial. Who can understand why tian despises the things that it does? Tian’s way (dao) is winning the war without going to battle, Is answering effectively without saying a word, Is coming of its own accord without being summoned, And is laying plans skillfully while remaining free and easy. Tian’s net is cast wide, And although coarse in its mesh, nothing slips through it."

Author

Lao Tzu

All Translations

English

"Those who are courageous in feats of daring will die because of it; While those whose courage is tempered by prudence will preserve their lives. In these two cases, courage can either put one in harm’s way, or be beneficial. Who can understand why tian despises the things that it does? Tian’s way (dao) is winning the war without going to battle, Is answering effectively without saying a word, Is coming of its own accord without being summoned, And is laying plans skillfully while remaining free and easy. Tian’s net is cast wide, And although coarse in its mesh, nothing slips through it."

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