Section 77
Chapter 77 explained simply
Tao Te Ching by Laozi
Original excerpt
Excerpt preview
1. May not the Way (or Tao) of Heaven be compared to the (method of) bending a bow? The (part of the bow) which was high is brought low, and what was low is raised up. (So Heaven) diminishes where there is superabundance, and supplements where there is deficiency. 2. It is the Way of Heaven to…
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Public-domain original
77. 1. May not the Way (or Tao) of Heaven be compared to the (method
of) bending a bow? The (part of the bow) which was high is brought
low, and what was low is raised up. (So Heaven) diminishes where
there is superabundance, and supplements where there is deficiency.
2. It is the Way of Heaven to diminish superabundance, and to
supplement deficiency. It is not so with the way of man. He takes
away from those who have not enough to add to his own superabundance.
3. Who can take his own superabundance and therewith serve all under
heaven? Only he who is in possession of the Tao!
4. Therefore the (ruling) sage acts without claiming the results as
his; he achieves his merit and does not rest (arrogantly) in it:--he
does not wish to display his superiority.
Public-domain original text shown for study context.
Simple English explanation
The way of heaven reduces excess and fills lack. Use surplus to strengthen what is weak. Human systems often reward excess with more excess.
1-minute summary
Chapter 77 explains that the way of heaven reduces excess and fills lack. In practice, use surplus to strengthen what is weak. It also warns that human systems often reward excess with more excess. The useful lesson is to make the wise move early, while the situation is still small enough to guide.
Key takeaways
- The way of heaven reduces excess and fills lack.
- Use surplus to strengthen what is weak.
- Human systems often reward excess with more excess.
- Use the idea in one concrete decision today.
Modern example
A business funds customer support before executive perks.
For kids
Choose the simple, kind, and steady way when things feel confusing.