Line by Line - Verse 30, Line 7

He does not dare (by continuing his operations) to assert and complete his mastery.
~ 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 ~

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.

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