The Warring States Period (403-221BCE) in which the Dao De Jing was born is fairly named. As time passed, internecine warfare raged with escalating ferocity among the contending states of the central Chinese plains.
At every level of innovation, from the introduction of calvary, to standard issue crossbows, to siege engines, these instruments of aggression made a folly of defense. Cities were walled and fortified only to be breached; borders were drawn up only to be redrawn; alliances were formed only to be betrayed; treaties were signed only to be reneged upon. For generation after generation, death became a way of life.
It was a response to these darkest days in Chinese history the Dao De Jing emerged as an alternative vision of what human experience might be like. The world was wasting away, and the Dao De Jing was a mysterious elixir that offered to serve as its restorative.
Chapter 59
For governing a country well there is nothing better than moderation.
The mark of a moderate man is freedom from his own ideas.
Tolerant like the sky, all-pervading like sunlight, firm like a mountain,
supple like a tree in the wind, he has no destination in view
and makes use of anything life happens to bring his way.Nothing is impossible for him.
Because he has let go, he can care for the people’s welfare
as a mother cares for her child.
This translation is from the ‘Tao Daily’ app that is free. I recommend it! It delivers you a chapter everyday to contemplate. Modern technology to remind us of ancient wisdom!
For a book translation I recommend Derek Lin’s – Tao Te Ching – the annotation and explanation can deepen understanding!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Alex Tan L.AC. is a licensed Acupuncturist. After completing his degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Alex lived and practiced Chinese Medicine for 10-years in Beijing, China. A native-born Australian, the son of his Australian mother and Chinese father, Alex’s bi-cultural heritage helps him skillfully bridge Eastern and Western health perspectives. He believes the true power of Chinese medicine lies in a balanced approach towards prevention and treatment. Rooted in Chinese Medicine observation based theory & methodology over millenniums, Alex’s talent lies in delivering these Eastern healing modalities to his modern Western clients. For more about Alex click here
Alex runs a clinic in Flagstaff, Northern Arizona. Alex welcomes comments and questions to his articles. To schedule an appointment in person or telco-appointment click here
