Is there some hidden cause that makes things as they are, whether they wish or not? Or is it just that everything moves and turns beause it has no choice?
Who, [or what], doing nothing, brings all this joyful excess into being?
Who, doing nothing, creates all trhis activity?
Perfect nobility disregards the honours of state. Perfect fulfilment ignores fame and glory. Alone of all, the Tao never alters.
The efforts and works of one age cannot, without great contortions, be made to fit another age.
Fame is something sought by all, but don't go for too much of it.
Someone who believes wealth is the most important thing cannot give up their income; someone who seeks pre-eminence cannot give up the hunt for fame; those who love power cannot hand it over to others. Those who cling to things like these are usually fearful.
Benevolence and righteousness, when forced upon you, disturb your heart and produce great distress. Why do you exert yourself so much, banging a big drum?
Fame and fortune, though sought after, do not make people greater than they actually are.
You can call it ruling, although it is nothing less than terrible chaos, which bears down upon the tranquillity of the hills and rivers. The rulers' knowledge is more deadly than the sting of a scorpion.
The six classics are the tired footpaths of the first kings. What you are going on about is just these tired footpaths.
Innate nature does not change; fate is unalterable; time cannot be stopped and the Tao cannot be halted. Hold fast to the Tao.
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