Line by Line - Verse 2, Line 9

Therefore the sage manages affairs without doing anything, and conveys his instructions without the use of speech.
~ James Legge translation, from The Sacred Books of the East, 1891 ~

Therefore the sage goes about doing nothing, teaching no-talking.
~ Gia-fu Feng and Jane English translation, published by Vintage Books, 1989 ~

Therefore the sages: Manage the work of detached actions Conduct the teaching of no words
~ Derek Lin translation, from Tao Te Ching: Annotated & Explained, published by SkyLight Paths, 2006 ~

The Masters get the job done without moving a muscle and signify without saying a word.
~ Ron Hogan rendition, from Beatrice.com, 2004 ~

With this line, the TTC introduces the concept of wu wei which has been defined in various ways such as action through non-action, effortless action or spontaneous action. For me, the main thrust of the message from this verse is that leading by example often is more informative and influential than flapping one's gums. When a person embraces the Way and their life models their inner strength, their seemingly effortless and spontaneous action speak volumes louder than words.

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