Line by Line - Verse 65, Lines 1-2

The ancients who showed their skill in practicing the Tao did so, not to enlighten the people, but rather to make them simple and ignorant.
~ James Legge translation, from The Sacred Books of the East, 1891 ~

In the beginning those who knew the Tao did not try to enlighten others,
But kept it hidden.
~ Gia-fu Feng and Jane English translation, published by Vintage Books, 1989 ~

Those of ancient times who were adept at the Tao
Used it not to make people brighter
But to keep them simple
~ Derek Lin translation, from Tao Te Ching: Annotated & Explained, published by SkyLight Paths, 2006 ~

In ancient times, leaders who were right with Tao didn't teach everybody how to become enlightened.
They kept people's lives simple.
~ Ron Hogan rendition, from Beatrice.com, 2004 ~

The first few times I read these lines, I was mystified. Why would sages hide skills and ideas that would help this world to be a better place?

In time, I believe I have come to understand, at least in my own mind, some reasons for this and I will offer two of them here. First off, one person can tell another of the "how" of something, but it doesn't really possess true meaning unless we experience it for ourselves. Words often are inadequate ways to convey such notions. A better way to teach is by example.

Secondly -- and we have seen this phenomena in terms of the Occupy Wall Street movement -- hucksters are quick to swoop in to brand and sell organic ideas. So, the early sages may have been concerned that unscrupulous individuals would misappropriate their teachings in order to earn a fast buck!

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