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Tao Te Ching Chapter 24 | Lao-Tzu | Comparative Translations

The Way of Virtue





He who stands on his tiptoes does not stand firm; he who stretches his legs does not walk (easily). (So), he who displays himself does not shine; he who asserts his own views is not distinguished; he who vaunts himself does not find his merit acknowledged; he who is self-

conceited has no superiority allowed to him. Such conditions, viewed from the standpoint of the Tao, are like remnants of food, or a tumour on the body, which all dislike. Hence those who pursue (the course)

of the Tao do not adopt and allow them.

He who stands on tiptoe

doesn't stand firm.

He who rushes ahead

doesn't go far.

He who tries to shine

dims his own light.

He who defines himself

can't know who he really is.

He who has power over others

can't empower himself.

He who clings to his work

will create nothing that endures.


If you want to accord with the Tao,

just do your job, then let go.

​




Translated by J. Legge





Translated by Stephen Mitchell

















 

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