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Tao Te Ching Chapter 69 | Lao-Tzu | Comparative Translations

  • Writer: Liveology
    Liveology
  • Jan 24, 2023
  • 1 min read

Updated: May 3, 2023

The Way of Virtue





A master of the art of war has said, 'I do not dare to be the host (to commence the war); I prefer to be the guest (to act on the defensive). I do not dare to advance an inch; I prefer to retire a foot.'


This is called marshalling the ranks where there are no ranks; baring the arms (to fight) where there are no arms to bare; grasping the weapon where there is no weapon to grasp; advancing against the enemy where there is no enemy.


There is no calamity greater than lightly engaging in war. To do that is near losing (the gentleness) which is so precious. Thus it is that when opposing weapons are (actually) crossed, he who deplores (the situation) conquers.

The generals have a saying:

"Rather than make the first move

it is better to wait and see.

Rather than advance an inch

it is better to retreat a yard."


This is called

going forward without advancing,

pushing back without using weapons.


There is no greater misfortune

than underestimating your enemy.

Underestimating your enemy

means thinking that he is evil.

Thus you destroy your three treasures

and become an enemy yourself.


When two great forces oppose each other,

the victory will go

to the one that knows how to yield.




Translated by J. Legge





Translated by Stephen Mitchell

















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