Line by Line - Verse 10, Lines 9-10

In the opening and shutting of his gates of heaven, cannot he do so as a female bird?
~ James Legge translation, from The Sacred Books of the East, 1891 ~

Opening and closing the gates of heaven,
Can you play the role of woman?
~ Gia-fu Feng and Jane English translation, published by Vintage Books, 1989 ~

In the heavenly gate's opening and closing
Can one hold to the feminine principle?
~ Derek Lin translation, from Tao Te Ching: Annotated & Explained, published by SkyLight Paths, 2006 ~

Can you deal with what's happening
and let it happen?
~ Ron Hogan rendition, from Beatrice.com, 2004 ~

I think Derek Lin explains this line beautifully, so allow me to step out of the way!!

The feminine principle refers to the yin principle of serenity and quietude. The opening and closing of the gate refers to the mind in motion and at rest. Together, these two lines describe a mental state that remains tranquil even when thought processes are active -- a state that is simultaneously peaceful and dynamic.

To view the Index page for this series to see what you may have missed or would like to read again, go here.