He does not dare (by continuing his operations) to assert and complete his mastery.The problem with domination is that it breeds contempt, resentment and the desire for revenge. You might be able to hold down a person, family or nation for the whole of your lifetime, but the descendants of those you subjugate will look for their chance in future generations to turn the tables.
~ James Legge translation, from The Sacred Books of the East, 1891 ~
Never take advantage of power.
~ Gia-fu Feng and Jane English translation, published by Vintage Books, 1989 ~
And does not dare to reach for domination
~ Derek Lin translation, from Tao Te Ching: Annotated & Explained, published by SkyLight Paths, 2006 ~
Do what you have to do without arrogance or pride.
~ Ron Hogan rendition, from Beatrice.com, 2004 ~
To view the Index page for this series to see what you may have missed or would like to read again, go here.
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