Section 67
Chapter 67 explained simply
Tao Te Ching by Laozi
Original excerpt
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1. All the world says that, while my Tao is great, it yet appears to be inferior (to other systems of teaching). Now it is just its greatness that makes it seem to be inferior. If it were like any other (system), for long would its smallness have been known! 2. But I have three precious things which…
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67. 1. All the world says that, while my Tao is great, it yet appears
to be inferior (to other systems of teaching). Now it is just its
greatness that makes it seem to be inferior. If it were like any
other (system), for long would its smallness have been known!
2. But I have three precious things which I prize and hold fast. The
first is gentleness; the second is economy; and the third is shrinking
from taking precedence of others.
3. With that gentleness I can be bold; with that economy I can be
liberal; shrinking from taking precedence of others, I can become a
vessel of the highest honour. Now-a-days they give up gentleness and
are all for being bold; economy, and are all for being liberal; the
hindmost place, and seek only to be foremost;--(of all which the end
is) death.
4. Gentleness is sure to be victorious even in battle, and firmly to
maintain its ground. Heaven will save its possessor, by his (very)
gentleness protecting him.
Public-domain original text shown for study context.
Simple English explanation
Compassion, frugality, and humility are durable treasures. Use care, enoughness, and modesty as practical strengths. Courage without compassion becomes aggression.
1-minute summary
Chapter 67 explains that compassion, frugality, and humility are durable treasures. In practice, use care, enoughness, and modesty as practical strengths. It also warns that courage without compassion becomes aggression. The useful lesson is to make the wise move early, while the situation is still small enough to guide.
Key takeaways
- Compassion, frugality, and humility are durable treasures.
- Use care, enoughness, and modesty as practical strengths.
- Courage without compassion becomes aggression.
- Use the idea in one concrete decision today.
Modern example
A negotiator protects the relationship, budget, and shared dignity.
For kids
Choose the simple, kind, and steady way when things feel confusing.