Line by Line - Verse 22, Lines 7-8

Therefore the sage holds in his embrace the one thing (of humility), and manifests it to all the world.
~ James Legge translation, from The Sacred Books of the East, 1891 ~

Therefore the wise embrace the one
And set an example to all.
~ Gia-fu Feng and Jane English translation, published by Vintage Books, 1989 ~
Therefore the sages hold to the one as an example for the world
~ Derek Lin translation, from Tao Te Ching: Annotated & Explained, published by SkyLight Paths, 2006 ~

A Master takes this to heart and sets an example for everybody else.
~ Ron Hogan rendition, from Beatrice.com, 2004 ~

In the previous line, Lao Tzu states that having much leads to confusion. So, it naturally follows that concentrating on the one -- Tao, the Way -- is more conducive to leading a virtuous and balanced life.

Unlike in today's shock jock world, the sage doesn't run around trumpeting his lifestyle. He doesn't view it as a marketing ploy. It's not a methodology to make a quick buck. It's not a gimmick to get an invite to Oprah.

The sage leads a humble and simple life to avoid confusions of the mind and heart. His or her life becomes a model for others who seek to walk along their own path of Tao.

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