A state may be ruled by (measures of) correction; weapons of war may be used with crafty dexterity; (but) the kingdom is made one's own (only) by freedom from action and purpose. How do I know that it is so? By these facts:--In the kingdom the multiplication of prohibitive enactments increases the poverty of the people; the more implements to add to their profit that the people have, the greater disorder is there in the state and clan; the more acts of crafty dexterity that men possess, the more do strange contrivances appear; the more display there is of legislation, the more thieves and robbers there are. Therefore a sage has said, 'I will do nothing (of purpose), and the people will be transformed of themselves; I will be fond of keeping still, and the people will of themselves become correct. I will take no trouble about it, and the people will of themselves become rich; I will manifest no ambition, and the people will of themselves attain to the primitive simplicity.'
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Tao Te Ching by Laozi is one of humanity's most profound and enduring spiritual texts — a brief collection of 81 verses that articulate the philosophy of Taoism, centering on the Tao (the Way) as the ineffable source and sustaining principle of all existence. Written in classical Chinese of extraordinary density and beauty, it teaches the virtues of non-action (wu wei), simplicity, humility, and harmony with the natural order. The Tao Te Ching has been translated more times than any book except the Bible and continues to speak with fresh wisdom to every age.
- Author
- Laozi
- Tradition
- Taoist
- Source text
- Tao Te Ching
- Chapter
- Tao Te Ching — Chapter 57
- Verse / page
- ttc.57
- Topics
- AdversitiesAttainmentKnowledgeLoveOnenessPurposeReformationSaintSilenceActionDesireDutyFreedomMissionPovertySimplicitySocietySpiritual AwakeningTransformationWealthGreatnessParadise
Same theme, different voices
All troubles come to an end when the ego dies.
A devotee serves selflessly, just like a player in a game who doesn't give up despite being hit. The devotee continues to serve with increased enthusiasm, even in the face of adversity.
If you want to be free from all grief and trouble, stay and walk with God, and with God alone.
No one can be completely independent of others, leading to various connections and relationships that often give rise to hatred, envy, jealousy, and other spiritual afflictions.