Tao Te Ching · Chapter
LXVI explained
The chapter uses the metaphor of rivers and seas being lower than valley streams to illustrate how the sage ruler, by placing himself below and behind others, gains their willing exaltation and avoids conflict.
What happens
The chapter uses the metaphor of rivers and seas being lower than valley streams to illustrate how the sage ruler, by placing himself below and behind others, gains their willing exaltation and avoids conflict.
Themes in this chapter
Sage Rulership and Governance
Describes how the sage ruler leads by being lowly and behind, thus gaining the people's support without strife.
The Soft Overcoming the Hard
The yielding posture of the ruler (like the lowly rivers) enables him to overcome and rule over all.
Characters to notice
- Laozi
Author of the Tao Te Ching, presenting the ideal of the sage ruler.
Key passages
“That whereby the rivers and seas are able to receive the homage and tribute of all the valley streams, is their skill in being lower than they;—it is thus that they are the kings of them all.”
Rivers and seas become the rulers of all streams because they are lower than them.
Illustrates the principle that humility and lowliness lead to dominance.
“So it is that the sage (ruler), wishing to be above men, puts himself by his words below them, and, wishing to be before them, places his person behind them.”
The wise ruler, to be above people, speaks humbly, and to lead them, he puts himself last.
Describes the paradoxical strategy of the sage ruler.
“In this way though he has his place above them, men do not feel his weight, nor though he has his place before them, do they feel it an injury to them.”
Thus, even when he is above or ahead of them, people do not feel burdened or harmed.
Highlights the non-oppressive nature of the sage's leadership.
“Therefore all in the world delight to exalt him and do not weary of him. Because he does not strive, no one finds it possible to strive with him.”
So everyone gladly honors him without tiring, because he does not contend, no one can contend with him.
Concludes that non-striving leads to universal support and invincibility.