Section 51
Chapter 51 explained simply
Tao Te Ching by Laozi
Original excerpt
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1. All things are produced by the Tao, and nourished by its outflowing operation. They receive their forms according to the nature of each, and are completed according to the circumstances of their condition. Therefore all things without exception honour the Tao, and exalt its outflowing operation.…
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51. 1. All things are produced by the Tao, and nourished by its
outflowing operation. They receive their forms according to the
nature of each, and are completed according to the circumstances of
their condition. Therefore all things without exception honour the
Tao, and exalt its outflowing operation.
2. This honouring of the Tao and exalting of its operation is not the
result of any ordination, but always a spontaneous tribute.
3. Thus it is that the Tao produces (all things), nourishes them,
brings them to their full growth, nurses them, completes them, matures
them, maintains them, and overspreads them.
4. It produces them and makes no claim to the possession of them; it
carries them through their processes and does not vaunt its ability in
doing so; it brings them to maturity and exercises no control over
them;--this is called its mysterious operation.
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Simple English explanation
The Tao gives life and virtue nourishes it. Support growth without possessing what grows. Control can corrupt care.
1-minute summary
Chapter 51 explains that the Tao gives life and virtue nourishes it. In practice, support growth without possessing what grows. It also warns that control can corrupt care. The useful lesson is to make the wise move early, while the situation is still small enough to guide.
Key takeaways
- The Tao gives life and virtue nourishes it.
- Support growth without possessing what grows.
- Control can corrupt care.
- Use the idea in one concrete decision today.
Modern example
A mentor helps someone develop and then lets them choose their path.
For kids
Choose the simple, kind, and steady way when things feel confusing.